Photo: Toronto Raptors/YouTube

Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram described himself as a “basketball junkie,” highlighting his deep love for the sport and its history. According to Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, Ingram said that growing up on the East Coast, he stayed up late to watch West Coast games, particularly those of Kobe Bryant.

“I grew up of course watching Kobe,” Ingram said. “Because I was on the East Coast and I would stay up and watch the games; my mom and dad would let me stay up and watch those games.” He added that Bryant’s mentality set him apart, noting the late Lakers star’s ability to make game-changing plays throughout his 20-year career.

Beyond Kobe, Ingram studies players known for skill and efficiency. He cited Tracy McGrady, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving as key figures whose offensive versatility he admires. “I’m a fan of guys that have skill in this league and I just watch all of those guys all the time,” he explained.

Ingram, often compared to Durant due to his length and scoring ability, embraces the comparison. “I think anybody would like the KD comparisons [laughs],” he said. He highlighted Durant’s shooting range, midrange proficiency, ability to attack the basket, and defensive impact as benchmarks for his own development.

The forward joined Toronto in February 2025 after a trade from New Orleans, in exchange for Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, and future draft picks. Shortly after, Ingram signed a three-year, $120 million extension with the Raptors. He was shut down for the remainder of the 2024–25 season following a PRP injection in his ankle to aid recovery.

In the 2025–26 preseason, Ingram has shown his scoring touch, averaging 20 points across three games, including a 21-point outing against Sacramento.