We learned two important things about Kobe Bryant’s legacy during the late NBA star’s statue unveiling. First, he means the world to his fans. Second, no one misses him more than his wife, Vanessa Bryant. When she delivered her beautiful unveiling speech at Crypto.com Arena, it was clear how proud she was of her husband. It was also evident how much she still grieves his loss.
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Four years ago, the athlete known as “Black Mamba” was killed along with his daughter, Gianna, in a helicopter crash. He left behind his wife and other daughter, Natalia. Although the accident cut his life tragically short, this NBA player made a huge impact on the world. His statue outside Crypto.com Arena is just one of the ways Kobe Bryant’s legacy is being honored, according to Vanessa. In fact, she announced that there are two more on the way, each with their special meaning.
“Because fans all over the world and the City of Angels loved Kobe so much, he will have three statues in front of the arena also known as ‘The House That Kobe Built,'” Vanessa Bryant said in her speech. “One wearing the number eight, one with our beautiful daughter Gianna, and one wearing the number 24.”
There’s a reason Kobe Bryant’s statue was unveiled on Thursday, Feb 8.
The numbers eight and 24 are both significant to Kobe Bryant’s career, which is why they’ll be featured in his statues. ESPN tells us that it’s also why the date Feb 8, 2024, was chosen for the unveiling of the first piece.
Vanessa Bryant’s heartfelt closing words touched the crowd, especially when she recited one of her late husband’s sayings.
“‘Leave the game better than when you found it, and when it comes time for you to leave, leave a legend,'” she quoted, adding, “And that, he did.”
Although Kobe Bryant is no longer with us, he continues to inspire future generations of basketball players with his story, his words of wisdom, and now, his statues.
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