Did Vlade Divac play with Kobe?

Yes, Vlade Divac played with Kobe.

The basketball landscape shifted on July 1, 1996, when Vlade Divac, a seasoned presence on the Lakers’ roster, was traded to the Charlotte Hornets.

In a move orchestrated by then-General Manager Jerry West, the Lakers acquired the draft rights to a young and promising talent – Kobe Bryant. This trade would go on to shape the destiny of the Lakers and leave an indelible mark on NBA history.

Fast forward eight seasons from the historic trade, Vlade Divac and Kobe Bryant found themselves sharing the Lakers’ locker room during the 2004-05 NBA season. Divac’s return to the purple and gold marked the culmination of a journey that had seen both players carve their paths in the league.

Divac, originally drafted by the Lakers in 1989, had established himself as a vital asset for the team. His contributions, including being named to the 1990 all-rookie first team and leading the Lakers in both points and rebounds, showcased his impact on the court. However, the 1996 trade for Kobe Bryant altered the course of Lakers history.

The 2004-05 season became a poignant chapter in the careers of Divac and Bryant. Playing together for the first time, the duo shared the court in 13 games. While it was a brief reunion, the connection between the seasoned Divac and the emerging superstar Bryant undoubtedly left an impression on Lakers fans and basketball enthusiasts alike.