Written By: @dawnnnyy_
Friday night marked the first time the Lakers have played at the Staples Center since the untimely death of Kobe Bryant. Kobe Bryant, a former Laker himself, played on the team for over 20 years, winning five championship rings total. Inevitably the team honored the legendary player in their first game back.
To start, each seat in The Staples Center was covered with Bryant’s No. 8 or No. 24 jersey. The “MVP” chant took over the arena to start the tribute. Usher then proceeded to take center court to sing “Amazing Grace.” After the song, the crowd broke into chants of “Kobe” and “Gigi.” The fatal crash also claimed the life of 13- year old Gianna Bryant, daughter of the fallen NBA star.
Lebron James spoke publicly for the first time since the death of Bryant at the tribute. “As I look around this arena, we’re all giving,” he said holding back tears. “This is a celebration for the blood sweat and tears…the determination to be as great as he could be. In the words of Kobe Bryant, ‘Mamba out,’ but in the words of us, ‘not forgotten,’ James concluded. “Live on, brother.”
Since the death of Bryant, NBA teams have been opening games with 24 or eight-second clock violations. The Lakers and the Blazers acted accordingly— Lakers, after winning the jump ball, took a 24-second violation; the Blazers followed with an eight-second violation. Yet, the Lakers had a specific moment during player announcements that was moving for anyone watching the game. Each player was introduced as “Kobe Bryant.”
Two courtside seats were left open in honor of Bryant and Gianna. Each of their jerseys were laid on the seats along with a bouquet of red roses.
Frank Vogel, Lakers head coach, spoke to PEOPLE before the game on the special family bond the team shares.
I think the first time we came together on Wednesday and put some shooting work in, then we spent time together upstairs with our lunch. Really each day that we’ve gotten together, the bond has strengthened even more and that will continue to be the case.”
Athletes across several sports were seen in the arena wearing one of Bryant’s jerseys.
Our hearts and prayers are not only with the Bryant family but also the other families that fell victim to this terrible tragedy.
There has been no set date for Bryant’s official memorial.
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