Today's NBA news

Kobe Bryant calls AAU basketball system 'stupid'

Kobe Bryant felt the need to take aim at the American AAU basketball system, citing the Spurs' roster and Gasol brothers as proof "skills" are taught overseas.

By Drew Garrison Jan 3, 2015, 9:35am PST

/ new

The Silver Screen & Roll Tweetbag is a collection of quotes, highlights and our caption contest posted after every Los Angeles Lakers game. Take a look around, drop a caption in the comments, and enjoy your stay!

The tweets

Regarding Kobe angrily fouling when Lin was waiting, Byron said he wanted Lin to wait till 10 secs left. And Byron said he told Kobe later.
— KEVIN DING (@KevinDing) January 3, 2015

Kobe on Lin: "He played well. He shot the ball well. He just needs to relax. Sometimes really smart people take themselves too seriously."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 3, 2015

Kobe went on a spiel just now about how "stupid" the American AAU basketball system is in not teaching kids real skills.
— KEVIN DING (@KevinDing) January 3, 2015

Kobe cited Pau and Marc Gasol and why "90% of the Spurs roster is European players." Called it "a big problem" AAU teams don't teach skill.
— KEVIN DING (@KevinDing) January 3, 2015

Kobe on key step to AAU programs teaching top basketball players real skill: "Stop treating 'em like cash cows."
— KEVIN DING (@KevinDing) January 3, 2015