Devance says he studied Kobe Bryant, Lamar Odom to learn triangle offense faster

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel forward Joe Devance said NBA legend Kobe Bryant was among the people who helped him learn the triangle offense faster.

In an emotional interview with a local news channel in the Philippines, the veteran forward of the PBA said he was heart-broken upon learning about the tragic death of Bryant a few days ago.

Devance, the 2007 top pick, said Bryant, along with coach Tim Cone and Bryant’s teammate Lamar Odom are the three people who helped him understand the triangle offense better and quicker.

“I literally studied these guys … to learn the game through them,” said Devance, who has played for Cone for most of his career.

Cone, the winningest PBA head coach with 22 championships, was one of the trailblazers for the triangle in the country.

Devance even said he patterned his game after Odom, who like him is a left-handed player and a forward.

Such connection with Bryant and Odom made Devance deeply saddened by what happened to the Los Angeles Laker great.

“I feel like I just lost a brother,” said Devance.

The Ginebra forward detailed how he found out about the news, initially thinking that a relative passed away because of a message he received from his sister.

“I woke up early, my alarm went off… I checked my messages and the last word I saw was ‘died,'” shared Devance.

“I checked it and she said it was Kobe,” added Devance, who didn’t believe it at first.

The 37-year-old pro also reminded viewers that they should enjoy life and love their families, as tomorrow is never promised.