In Depth With Graham Bensinger Season 5 Episode 21 Jerry West: NBA Logo, Signing Kobe & Shaq

In Depth With Graham Bensinger season 5 episode 21 delves deep into the life and career of former NBA player and executive Jerry West. The episode is titled "Jerry West: NBA Logo, Signing Kobe & Shaq," and it explores some of the most impactful moments of West's career.

The episode begins with a discussion of West's childhood and his early years playing basketball in West Virginia. West talks about how he fell in love with the sport and his determination to succeed despite facing various obstacles. From there, the conversation turns to West's time playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he spent his entire 14-year NBA career. West discusses the challenges he faced as a player, as well as some of the memorable moments from his time on the court.

One of the most interesting parts of the episode is when West discusses his role in creating the NBA logo. West explains that the iconic image of a player dribbling a ball was originally created as a blueprint for a new basketball court design. However, when the NBA needed a new logo, West's friend and colleague suggested using the image as the basis for the league's new logo. West talks about the surprise he felt when he first saw the logo on NBA merchandise and how it has since become one of the most recognizable symbols in sports.

The episode also explores some of the major decisions West made during his time as an NBA executive. This includes the decision to draft Kobe Bryant in 1996, as well as the decision to sign Shaquille O'Neal as a free agent in 1996. West talks about what he saw in both players and how he worked to convince others in the Lakers organization to take a chance on them. He also discusses the challenges of managing egos and building a winning team, as well as the gratification he felt when the Lakers won three championships in a row from 2000-2002.

Throughout the episode, West is candid and thoughtful in his responses to Bensinger's questions. He talks openly about his struggles with depression, as well as his dedication to his family and his belief in the importance of hard work and persistence. Viewers who are interested in the history of the NBA or who simply want to learn more about one of the most successful and impactful figures in basketball will find much to enjoy in this informative and engaging episode.