Most Lakers fans agree that second-year forward Adou Thiero might not be quite ready to start the upcoming season in the team’s starting lineup. However, his performances during brief stints in the G League and Summer League have showcased three key attributes that hint he might be closer to securing the Lakers’ fifth starting position than many expect—possibly just months away rather than years.
Although it’s unlikely Thiero will begin the season as a starter, the length of an NBA season and his rapid development potential make it very possible. If he continues to grow, these qualities are what might help him leapfrog his competitors to earn that spot.
Explosive Athleticism and Physicality
In the G League, Thiero often displayed impressive explosiveness, quickly finding driving lanes and overwhelming defenders, who frequently resorted to fouling him. If they didn’t, he showcased highlight-reel dunks by soaring through the air. This dominance continued through the California Classic and Las Vegas Summer League, where his exceptional strength and leaping ability were evident, particularly on rebounds—he finished the Summer League averaging 6.2 boards per game. While these leagues aren’t the NBA itself, players with his size, strength, and agility remain extremely rare, and on the court, he’s typically the most athletic player present. If Thiero harnesses his athletic gifts on defense and rebounding while using his explosiveness more on offense, he could elevate himself well beyond his peers.
Rapid Progression
Due to limited playing time in his rookie season—only 10 G League games with an average of 22.5 minutes and missing the Summer League—fans had few opportunities to evaluate his game deeply. He showed flashes of his athleticism and seemed capable of making threes (shooting 50% on 20 attempts in those games), but overall appeared raw and years away from fully utilizing his physical gifts. However, in the 2026 Summer League, he exhibited noticeable growth. Although his shooting remained inconsistent, his defensive pressure and on-ball disruption reached a level that could fit well at the NBA wing position, regularly generating turnovers and preventing opponents from penetrating easily. He averaged 1.8 steals per game in Vegas.
As the summer progressed, improvements became clear—not just in defense but also in offensive skills like ball handling and passing. Early turnovers gave way to better decision-making, resulting in quicker assists and smoother drives to the basket. Thiero finished the Summer League with an average of three assists per game, highlighting an evolving playmaking ability.
Intense Competitive Drive
Beyond physical tools and rapid improvement lies a less tangible but equally essential trait: competitive greatness. Legendary coach John Wooden placed this attribute atop his Pyramid of Success, emphasizing the unparalleled drive to win. Kobe Bryant famously described it as hating to lose more than loving to win, a mindset forged into what became known as the Mamba Mentality. Similarly, the phrase “eye of the tiger,” popularized by the movie Rocky III, captures the fierce determination needed to excel.
While Thiero’s rookie year lacked this fiery edge, his demeanor in the recent Summer League was different—serious, intense, and focused, reminiscent of Kobe’s competitive spirit. Although his long-term success may hinge on developing a reliable 3-point shot, his blend of physical talent, quick learning, and a steely will to compete gives him a legitimate shot at a lasting NBA career. If he channels this competitive greatness effectively, he could swift past expectations and secure a starting role with the Lakers this season. Given these qualities, betting on Adou Thiero’s rise seems a smart choice.
Fan Take: For basketball enthusiasts, Thiero’s rapid advance and fierce competitive spirit offer an exciting glimpse into the making of the next impactful NBA player. His development underscores how physical talent combined with relentless drive can quickly reshape team dynamics and deepen the league’s pool of emerging stars, which is thrilling for fans and great for the sport’s future.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
