Dodger Stadium put basketball in the spotlight Saturday night as new Los Angeles Lakers additions Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia and Adou Thiero took the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch before the Los Angeles Dodgers game.
The appearance was part of the club’s annual Lakers Night, a tradition that celebrates the city’s NBA franchise. Before tossing their pitches, the trio joined public-address announcer Todd Leitz in the customary “It’s time for Dodger baseball!” call that opens every home game.
First trip to Chavez Ravine
For Ayton, LaRavia and Thiero—each acquired by the Lakers this offseason—the visit marked their first look at Chavez Ravine. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts offered a few quick pointers on pitching mechanics, advice that seemed to pay off for LaRavia and Thiero. Ayton’s toss, however, sailed high and wide, drawing playful groans from the crowd.
Weekend of cross-sport tributes
Their appearance came 24 hours after the ballpark honored late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant with a bobblehead giveaway. Bryant’s youngest daughter, Bianka Bryant, handled first-pitch duties for that Friday night tribute as the Bryant family looked on.
Dodgers aim to repeat, Lakers eye new start
The Dodgers enter the stretch run as defending World Series champions and current betting favorites to capture another title. The Lakers hope some of that championship energy carries over when training camp opens in less than two months.
Imagem: lakersnation.com
Ayton, who joined the Lakers in free agency, said the franchise’s title aspirations were a decisive factor in his decision. “I wanted to be in a winning situation … I feel like the Lakers were the best position,” the 26-year-old center told reporters after signing. “They want to win a championship right now, and I want to win right now as well.”
The Lakers will reconvene for camp in early October, giving Ayton, LaRavia and Thiero time to settle into Los Angeles—and perhaps refine their pitching form before any future return trips to Dodger Stadium.
Source: Lakers Nation
