Victories have been far and few for athletes and sports fans this past year. The change in seasons due to COVID-19 and the death of one of basketball’s greatest athletes started the year off rough. Kobe Bryant may be gone but his legacy continues.
The city of Los Angeles faced loss at the beginning of the year and is ending the year with two championship wins. After completing their season in the NBA bubble, the Lakers defeated the Miami Heat in Game Six to win their 17th NBA title. Two weeks later the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Tampa Bay Rays in six games to win the World Series.
Both Los Angeles teams were able to achieve championship wins in their respective leagues in the same year. After suffering a great loss, the fans were able to celebrate the victories of both teams. Many fans believe that the death of Bryant inspired both teams and helped them win. In a sense, Bryant was watching over them as they competed.
The unexpected death of Bryant and his daughter Gianna impacted millions of people around the world. Athletes from every sport paid tribute by wearing his No. 24 or No. 8 jersey, having a moment of silence and letting the 24-second shot clock run out or allowing an eight-second backcourt violation at the beginning of the games.
Before his death, Bryant was a Dodgers fan and would attend many games. On several occasions, he threw the ceremonial first pitch. In celebration with the rest of Los Angeles, Natalia, Bryant’s oldest daughter, shared pictures of the family at a Dodgers game. Bryant’s wife Vanessa shared the same pictures and posted a congratulatory picture when the Lakers won.
Bryant finished his 20-year career with the Lakers in 2016 but remained the face of the team. Nobody could talk about the Lakers and not talk about Bryant at the same time. Bryant helped lead the Lakers to seven NBA finals and five championship rings. He was a two-time NBA Finals MVP and 2008 NBA MVP.
To say that Bryant was an inspiration to many is an understatement. For many athletes and fans, Bryant is a role model. His work ethic and mentality both on and off the court is what many strive for. He was not only an amazing basketball player but a great father, teacher and champion for women’s sports.
His life has left a great impression and legacy. For the Lakers and the Dodgers, being able to play a game and embrace the “mamba mentality” like Bryant made all the difference.
