Kobe Bryant's legacy immortalized with unveiling of statue

Kobe Bryant’s legacy immortalized with unveiling of statue

THE Los Angeles Lakers have finally unveiled their statue commemorating Kobe Bryant’s legacy with the gold and purple.

The statue shows Kobe Bryant pointing at the skies, a celebration he did after scoring 81 points against the Toronto Raptors last January 22, 2006, where the Lakers secured a 122-104 victory.

Even his five NBA championships and other accomplishments were also immortalized. There was even a nod to Phil Jackson and Tex Winters’ triangle offense.

His four daughers even had their names engraved in Kobe’s tattoos on the statue’s arm.

When talking about the pose, Vanessa Bryant said: “For the record, Kobe picked the pose you’re about to see.”

Then she expressed her gratefulness to the fans saying: “I’m thankful for all the fans. Kobe has so many people that have supported him all over the world from the very beginning and this moment isn’t just for Kobe, but it’s for all of you that have been rooting for him all of these years.”

“And to the fans here in LA, this is a special city Kobe was so proud to represent. It brings me joy to see how much love you have for all of us. We love you back.”

Kobe isn’t the only Laker to have a statue outside the Crypto.com Arena as other legends such as Shaquille O’Neal, Karim Abdul-Jabbar, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, and Chick Hearn were also commemorated.

The ceremony was attended by his former coach Phil Jackson, his former teammate Derek Fisher, Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Lakers executive Jeanie Buss.

While this statue will serve as an inspiration to Kobe and basketball fans everywhere, Vanessa Bryant revealed that two other statues are being planned, one on Kobe’s daughter Gianna, and another with Kobe Bryant wearing jersey No. 24.