Los Angeles Lakers fans and the basketball community witnessed a poignant moment on Thursday, 8 February 2024, as the first of three statues commemorating Kobe Bryant was unveiled at Star Plaza outside Crypto.com Arena.
Kobe Bryant immortalised with first of three statues at Crypto.com
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This event not only memorialised a legendary athlete but also marked a significant chapter in honouring Bryant’s legacy.
The unveiling ceremony brought together luminaries from the Lakers’ storied history, including Jerry West, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and former head coach Phil Jackson, among others.
Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, played a central role in the proceedings, sharing heartfelt reflections on Kobe’s impact on the game and his enduring inspiration to current and future generations of players.
The statue captures a triumphant moment, with Bryant in his No. 8 Lakers uniform, his index finger pointed skyward, commemorating his unforgettable 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors on 22 January 2006.
The choice of a triangle-shaped base pays homage to the triangle offence strategy that Bryant mastered under Jackson’s tutelage.
Vanessa revealed plans for two additional statues, one depicting Bryant in his No. 24 jersey and another featuring him alongside his daughter Gianna, who also perished in the tragic helicopter crash on 26 January 2020.
The ceremony’s date, 2/8/24, symbolically incorporates the jersey numbers of both Kobe and Gianna, further entwining their legacies with the Lakers and the broader basketball community.
Kobe Bryant’s illustrious career with the Lakers is highlighted by his five NBA championships and numerous records, including being the franchise’s all-time leading scorer.
His total of 33 643 points places him fourth in NBA history, a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the sport.
