LA PLATICA Podcast Episode Summary: “Kobe Bryant Wants You On His Team” – Isa Escribano AKA Jiggy Talks Becoming a Basketball Legend

Host: LA PLATICA PODCAST
Guest: Isa Escribano (Sevas)
Release Date: April 18, 2025
Episode Title: “Kobe Bryant Wants You On His Team” Isa Escribano AKA Jiggy Talks Becoming a Basketball Legend

1. Introduction to Isa Escribano

In this inspiring episode of LA PLATICA, hosts Sevas and Josh welcome Isa Escribano, affectionately known as Jiggy, a rising basketball star and the youngest guest ever on the show. At just 16 years old, Isa is already making waves on the Mexico national basketball team and has a remarkable story intertwined with the legacy of Kobe Bryant.

Notable Quote:

Josh (06:11): “This girl right here is... doing some crazy things right now. She's 16 years old. She plays for the Mexico national team. One of the youngest members...”

2. Early Life and Introduction to Basketball

Isa’s journey into basketball began at a young age, influenced heavily by her older brother and family. Growing up, she often played against older peers, which instilled a sense of toughness and resilience.

Key Points:

• Started playing basketball around fifth grade, often competing with eighth graders.
• Her brother, Marco, played a pivotal role in her development, encouraging her dedication and discipline.
• Isa demonstrated exceptional strength and perseverance early on, notably refusing to give up during intense workouts (07:40).

Notable Quote:

Isa (08:04): “As early as 12 years old, I already had money from my bank account. If I wanted new headphones or basketball gear, I had it.”

3. Connection with Kobe Bryant and Team Mamba

Isa’s talent caught the attention of Kobe Bryant, leading to her invitation to join Team Mamba, Kobe’s basketball team. This opportunity marked a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

Key Points:

• Invited by Phil Handy, a Raptors staff member, to train at Lakers facilities.
• First practice under Kobe Bryant was challenging, adapting to the Lakers’ offensive strategies (22:24).
• Kobe’s mentorship emphasized perseverance, encapsulated in his mantra: “Brick by brick, Jig” (26:22).
• Emphasis on relentless practice, with Kobe advising Isa to “shoot till your arms fall off” (27:23).

Notable Quotes:

Isa (26:22): “He was telling me, brick by brick, Jig, which means you’re not going to build your house in one day.”

Isa (27:23): “Shoot, your arms fall off.”

4. Experience with the Mexico National Team

After Kobe Bryant’s untimely passing, Isa transitioned back to her local training but soon joined the Mexico national team, where she continues to excel.

Key Points:

• Played with older girls, gaining valuable experience and leadership skills.
• Represents Mexico in international competitions, receiving immense support from fans.
• Balances rigorous training schedules with academic responsibilities, attending an all-girls private school (43:05).

Notable Quote:

Isa (30:18): “When we played, it didn’t matter if you won or lost. You have a crowd of people from Mexico waiting for you and congratulating you.”

5. Family Support and Dynamics

Isa credits her brother Marco and her parents for their unwavering support, which has been crucial to her success both on and off the court.

Key Points:

• Marco acts as a mentor and coach, motivating Isa to maintain a strict training regimen (33:38).
• Her parents provide foundational support, ensuring Isa has access to necessary resources.
• The sibling bond is strong, with Marco often prioritizing Isa’s needs over his own (56:41).

Notable Quote:

Marco (34:24): “She’s really a miracle baby. They told him it was impossible for him to have kids, but here she is.”

6. Overcoming Challenges and Criticism

Despite her achievements, Isa faces criticism and challenges, particularly from online sources. However, her resilience and self-awareness help her navigate these obstacles effectively.

Key Points:

• Deals with online critics by staying focused on her goals and ignoring negativity (37:43).
• Balances intense training with academic excellence, improving her GPA after a challenging freshman year (49:57).
• Emphasizes the importance of mental strength and not letting criticism derail her ambitions (38:25).

Notable Quote:

Isa (37:54): “I know my worth. I know how hard I work behind closed doors. Nobody's gonna know how hard I work.”

7. Goals and Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Isa aims to elevate Mexican basketball on the global stage and secure a spot in a top university’s basketball program.

Key Points:

• Short-term goals include winning central basketball to qualify for the Americas and achieving MVP status (43:05).
• Long-term ambition to play at a university level and potentially transfer through the evolving transfer portal system (52:14).
• Aspires to create a lasting impact on the sport and inspire young athletes, especially girls, in Mexico and beyond.

Notable Quote:

Isa (43:05): “My personal goal is to put Mexico on the map.”

8. Personal Anecdotes and Lighter Moments

The episode also delves into the lighter side of Isa’s life, highlighting her interests outside basketball, her love for snacks like Oxxo’s Maria’s cookies, and her interactions with her supportive brother.

Key Points:

• Enjoys favorite snacks and routines, adding a relatable touch to her disciplined lifestyle.
• Shares humorous moments with her brother Marco, emphasizing their close relationship and mutual support.
• Discusses her favorite basketball shoes and the cultural aspects of her experiences with Team Mamba.

Notable Quote:

Isa (41:15): “I love Maria’s cookies from Oxxo. And I always get a mango Arizona too.”

9. Conclusion and Inspirations

The hosts express deep admiration for Isa’s dedication, resilience, and the supportive family that surrounds her. Isa’s story serves as a powerful testament to what young athletes can achieve with passion and support.

Closing Remarks:

Josh (64:23): “You’re a blossoming superstar, and we had you on LA Platica. So 10 years from now, maybe even sooner, when we sit in courtside, we be like, ‘You saw that episode?’”

Final Thoughts:

This episode of LA PLATICA offers a profound look into Isa Escribano’s journey as a young basketball prodigy. From her early days playing against older peers to her mentorship under Kobe Bryant and her role in the Mexico national team, Isa exemplifies dedication and resilience. Supported by her family, especially her brother Marco, Isa navigates the pressures of athletic excellence and academic responsibilities with grace. Her story is not only inspiring for aspiring athletes but also a celebration of familial bonds and unwavering support.

Follow Isa Escribano:

• Instagram: @isa_escribano (Example link)
• Upcoming Performances: Training camps in Sonora, upcoming tournaments with the Mexico national team.

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