"Real Money" Star Dez Money On Why He Follows The Los Angeles Lakers

Known for his thick accent and ball-busting attitude, legendary rock singer Eddie Money is the consummate New Yorker. However, his family -- which stars in the new AXS TV series Real Money -- only knows life on the West Coast. So when speaking with Money's son Desmond "Dez" Money, I picked up on the fact that the Los Angeles Lakers are not only his NBA team of choice, but also who he views as his local team.

Many iconic players have passed through the Lakers franchise over the decades, including Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, and James Worthy. But the current team roster, which includes Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Luol Deng and Brook Lopez, also has plenty of star power. Dez Money -- who can be visited online at www.dezmoney.com -- remains optimistic about what lies ahead for the Lakers in the 2018-19 NBA season, but in the meantime he has plenty else going on between the April 8th premiere of Real Money, touring with father Eddie, and working on his second full-length album.

So when did you first become a fan of the Lakers?

Dez Money: I’ve been a Laker fan my whole life. I grew up watching Shaq [uille O'Neal] and Kobe [Bryant] play and have been a fan ever since. I watch every game.

Having New York roots, were you ever a Knicks fan?

Dez Money: Though my father is from New York, I’ve never really been a Knicks fan. It’s just Lakers for me. Not really a Clippers fan either.

How often do you go to Lakers games?

Dez Money: I love going to the games. I try to go as often as I can when not working.

Do you have a favorite Laker?

Dez Money: My favorite Laker of all-time is definitely Kobe Bryant. Just the way he approached the game I try to approach music the same way. His work ethic is really inspiring and makes you want to work hard to be the best at whatever it is that you do. The Lakers are a young team right now but are moving towards the right direction. If Lonzo Ball didn’t have those injuries they probably could’ve made the playoffs. I think Brandon Ingram is going to be a special player and hope they re-sign Julius Randle. Also a big fan of Kyle Kuzma. He was the steal of the draft.

Do you play ball outside of watching a lot of Lakers game?

Dez Money: I’m OKAY at basketball. I’m a lot better at music -- let’s put it that way.

Career-wise, what is coming up for you within the next few months?

Dez Money: My show on AXS TV about my family titled Real Money is premiering Sunday, April 8th. I’m on tour with my dad, and when I’m home I’m in the studio putting the finishing touches on my second record.

Finally, Dez, any last words for the kids?

Dez Money: Be yourself. Follow your dreams. Go Lakers!