by: @Samaya.Rn
Kobe Bryant’s recent passing has left us all in shock and grief, including the nation of Italy, where Bryant resided.
On Monday, the Italian Basketball Federation declared a minute’s silence for all games “in every category” for the full week, in honor of the late player.
“It’s a small but heartfelt & deserved gesture to honor the life and memory of Kobe Bryant, an absolute champion who always had Italy in his heart. Kobe was and always will be linked to our country,” said the federation.
Living with his father, acclaimed former basketball player Joe “Jellybean” Bryant between the ages of six and thirteen, Kobe Bryant grew up in Italy. At the same time, his father played for several teams throughout the country, not returning home to Pennsylvania until it was time for Bryant to enter high school.
Kobe often said it would be a dream to play in the country of Italy, according to The Hollywood Reporter. In 2011, Bryant’s dream almost came to fruition during an NBA lockdown, but the deal fell through.
“We’ve lost a friend,” said the front-page headline of Italy’s prime sports publication, Gazzetta dello Sport.
Amongst the many tributes to honor the fallen athlete, NBA 2K20 will honor Kobe, as well. A photo of Bryant, pictured above the dates of his life, will appear as game players launch the game.
“Along with the rest of the world, we are shocked & devastated by the sudden passing of Kobe Bryant. He has been an inspiration on and off the court to us all and a valued partner to 2K for many years. We’re inspired & heartened by the ways the 2K player community are rallying together and honoring Kobe– including parades, custom jerseys, intentional 24-second shot clock violations and dedicated streams” a rep for 2K Games reports.
NBA 2K20’s official Twitter account read: “RIP to Legend. Thank you for your many contributions on and off the court. You are greatly missed.”
