The Unlikely Matchup: Cooper Kupp vs. Zach LaVine in High School Basketball
In the world of sports, it’s not unusual for professional athletes to cross paths during their formative years. However, it’s a rare occurrence when two future stars from different sports face off in a high school game, especially when one of them has since transitioned to a completely different athletic discipline. Such was the case for Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp and Chicago Bulls shooting guard Zach LaVine, who both hail from the state of Washington.
A Clash of Titans in the State Playoffs
Kupp and LaVine attended high schools that were similar in size but not in the same athletic conference. Kupp played for Davis High School in Yakima, while LaVine represented Bothell High School. Their paths converged during the state playoffs, where Kupp’s team faced LaVine’s in the quarterfinals. The stakes were high, and the atmosphere was electric, but the outcome was decidedly one-sided.
During a recent podcast appearance with his quarterback, Matthew Stafford, Kupp recounted the game, revealing that his team dominated LaVine’s squad, leading by as much as 35 points in the fourth quarter. Kupp took pride in his defensive performance, claiming he limited LaVine to just four points during their matchup. This assertion, while perhaps embellished, adds an intriguing layer to their rivalry.
The Game Breakdown: Defense and Strategy
Kupp, who played point guard in high school, detailed his defensive strategy against LaVine, who was also a point guard at the time. Kupp’s approach was straightforward: prevent LaVine from shooting 3-pointers and force him to drive into help defense. While Kupp’s claim of holding LaVine to four points is contested—some reports suggest LaVine scored as many as 14 or even 20 points—the narrative remains compelling. Kupp himself finished the game with 19 points, showcasing his dual-threat capability on the court.
“I’m going to admit that I played pretty good defense that game,” Kupp said, reflecting on his performance. “All I did was not let him shoot a 3-pointer, make him drive, help defense.” His confidence in his defensive skills is evident, and it’s clear that this game left a lasting impression on both athletes.
The Aftermath: Kupp’s Rise and LaVine’s Reflection
Fast forward to today, and Kupp has emerged as one of the NFL’s premier wide receivers. After a successful college career at Eastern Washington, he was drafted in the third round by the Los Angeles Rams in 2017. His journey from an unranked college prospect to a Super Bowl champion is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
On the other hand, LaVine has made a name for himself in the NBA, having been drafted in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014 after a standout season at UCLA. His athletic prowess and scoring ability have made him a key player for the Chicago Bulls.
When asked about the high school game and Kupp’s claims, LaVine was gracious, acknowledging the dominance of Kupp’s team. “They whooped our ass,” he admitted, recalling how Kupp had picked him up full court for the entire game. LaVine’s humility shines through as he reflects on the matchup, noting that at the time, he had no idea who Kupp was, referring to him as “this little white dude guarding me.”
The Legacy of Their Encounter
The encounter between Kupp and LaVine serves as a fascinating footnote in the careers of both athletes. It highlights not only their competitive spirits but also the unpredictable nature of sports, where paths can cross in unexpected ways. As both players continue to excel in their respective leagues, the memory of their high school showdown remains a unique chapter in their stories.
In a world where athletes often transition from one sport to another, the tale of Kupp and LaVine stands out as a reminder of the shared experiences that shape their journeys. Whether on the football field or the basketball court, the competitive fire that drives them is evident, and their high school matchup is a testament to the talent that emerged from Washington state.
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