With Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant’s statue scheduled for an unveiling ceremony at 3 p.m. PT today, longtime friend, former Olympic teammate, and fellow all-time LA great LeBron James had some really insightful things to say about Bryant as a player and person both on and off the court.
Kobe’s impact on the landscape of basketball is undeniable, as he almost seamlessly took the torch from Michael Jordan as an elite two-way, incredibly athletic, tough-shot making two guard with a killer instinct and work ethic matched by none.
His five NBA championships aside, Bryant’s impact on the city of Los Angeles makes him just as deserving for a statue as his playing career itself.
Being the face of Los Angeles sports for 20 years, Bryant carried himself with humility and class, having a connection to the area that few athletes have ever possessed. The city took him under their wing as an 18-year old back in 1996, and simply put, never lost faith.
As James explains, it’s also a beautiful moment for the Bryant family, who have had a nightmarish past couple of years. For Vanessa and co., this is a beautiful way to forever be etched in the city as the family that supported, encouraged, and helped grow LA’s most beloved figure – possibly ever.
