Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Andrew Bynum lost interest in learning fundamentals

Andrew Bynum has the size and ability to be one of the best centers in the NBA. His skill has never really been in question. His motivation has. Sixers fans are hoping a change of scenery will mean a change in attitude and a new beginning for their franchise. As someone who worked with Bynum for quite some time, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar knows all about the former Laker’s tendencies and what Dwight Howard should be able to bring to L.A. that he couldn’t.

“Dwight is very committed to playing and winning,” Abdul-Jabbar said according to the LA Times. “Andrew has been up and down on that issue. There are times he wants to play, do a great job and he goes out and does it. Then there are other times where it seems like he’s not focused.

“When I first started working with him, he was eager to learn. He appreciated me shortening the learning curve. Once he figured he did everything he wanted to do in terms of learning, he didn’t want me to bother him constantly going over the fundamentals.”

During his time with the Lakers, Bynum became known for missing team meetings and doing stupid things during games more so than he did for his rebounding and scoring ability. Had he remained focused and actually cared about winning, there’s no telling how good L.A. could have been. If what Kareem says is accurate, Howard will bring the team an element it has been searching for with Bynum.

H/T Pro Basketball Talk
Photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-US PRESSWIRE