For most NBA rookies, the first practice with a team full of superstars is a moment to soak in, stay humble, and maybe ease into the system. But Dalton Knecht had other plans.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024 first-round pick recently revealed that his “Welcome to the NBA” moment came when he attempted to dunk on none other than Anthony Davis.
In a rapid-fire interview reflecting on his rookie season, Knecht didn’t hesitate when asked about the moment that made him realize he was truly in the NBA.
“I’d say my first practice with AD and Bron,” he said. “That was my first welcome to the NBA moment. I tried to dunk on AD, and, you know, AD’s a great shot blocker”.
Dalton Knecht really tried to dunk on AD in his FIRST NBA PRACTICE 💀 pic.twitter.com/9k9kFYAND6
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) June 30, 2025
The bold move didn’t result in a poster, but it did leave a lasting impression, on both Knecht and his teammates. It was a fearless introduction to a locker room that included not just Davis, but also LeBron James. For a rookie coming out of Tennessee, it was a trial by fire, and Knecht embraced it.
Selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht went on to play in 78 regular-season games for the Lakers, averaging 9.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. The transition from college to the NBA was no small feat, and Knecht has spoken candidly about the physical and mental toll of an 82-game season.
“It’s kind of the biggest challenge, you know. First 82 games as a rookie, it’s kind of different from college. It’s just 40 games,” he said.
Despite the steep learning curve, Knecht found mentorship in the Lakers’ veteran core. He credited LeBron James with helping him stay grounded and focused.
“He told me to always just stay consistent and always stay who you are… make sure you’re always just doing what you love,” Knecht recalled.
While his future role with the Lakers remains fluid, one thing is clear: Dalton Knecht isn’t afraid of the moment. Whether it’s trying to dunk on a future Hall of Famer or grinding through a long rookie season, he’s shown the kind of confidence and work ethic that could make him a long-term contributor in Los Angeles.
