The Los Angeles Lakers have had to endure the tough loss of Kobe Bryant, arguably the greatest icon in franchise history and one of the most beloved and respected players to ever set foot on a basketball hardwood. Up to this day, the basketball community still can’t fathom the fact that he’s no longer among us.
Kobe’s life was lost on January 26 along with his daughter Gianna ‘Gigi’ Bryant and 7 other people on a helicopter crash. The Lakers, as well as countless sports franchises around the world, honored him in a high note in the following weeks.
Now, the purple and gold will turn intoblack-and-yellow, as the team is slated to honor the late idol with some ‘Black Mamba’ alternate jerseys for Game 4 of the first round of the NBA playoffs vs. the Portland Trail Blazers, which will take place on August 24 (8/24, the two numbers Kobe wore during his career with the Lakers).
Kobe’s widow Vanessa Bryant shared a sneak peek of the alternate uniform, which will also include a patch with number 2 in honor of Gigi. The NBA’s lockervision website also shared a preview of the jerseys.
Lakers Extra Motivated For Kobe
LeBron James and the rest of the Lakers’ locker room wer clearly affected by the tragicdeath of Bryant. They’ve dedicated the season to him and want to put the cherry on top of the sundae by winning the NBA championship.
Kobe meant the world for the city, the organization, and the Lakers’ culture. In fact, it’s been 24 years since the Lakers last won a playoff game that didn’t feature the Black Mamba on their team.
Bryant led the Lakers to 5 NBA championships. His determination to win at all costs, stubbornnessand unmatched work ethic made him one of the most inspiring people of his generation.