Los Angeles Lakers and Vanessa Bryant to Unveil Kobe Bryant Statue at Crypto.com Arena
Los Angeles Lakers fans and basketball enthusiasts around the world have been eagerly awaiting news of a permanent tribute to Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. The wait is over as the Lakers, in collaboration with Vanessa Bryant, have announced that a bronze statue commemorating Kobe Bryant’s incredible career will be unveiled at Star Plaza outside of Crypto.com Arena on February 8, 2024.
The statue is a testament to Bryant’s lasting legacy and his remarkable 20-year NBA career as a proud member of the Los Angeles Lakers. It will serve as a reminder of his invaluable contributions not only to the Lakers franchise but also to the sport of basketball as a whole.
In a statement, Vanessa Bryant expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the honor bestowed upon her late husband. She highlighted Kobe’s deep connection to the city of Los Angeles, referring to it as the “City of Angels” where he truly felt at home. The unveiling of the statue will undoubtedly be a moment of reflection and remembrance for fans worldwide as they pay tribute to the man who inspired millions with his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication to the game.
This is just the first of several planned physical tributes that will be dedicated to honoring Bryant’s legacy. Through this statue, he will join the illustrious group of Lakers legends, including the likes of Elgin Baylor, Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Jerry West, and Chick Hearn, all of whom have been immortalized with statues.
Renowned sculptor Julie Rotblatt Amrany of the Fine Art Studio of Rotblatt Amrany is the talent behind the creation of this masterpiece. Known for her incredible attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of her subjects, Amrany’s work will undoubtedly do justice to Bryant’s larger-than-life persona.
Los Angeles Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss expressed her belief that there is no better place to honor Kobe than at the heart of the city where he achieved countless milestones throughout his career. The ceremony will take place outside of Crypto.com Arena, creating a fitting atmosphere for fans to come together and celebrate the life and achievements of one of the greatest players to grace the basketball court.
Kobe Bryant’s phenomenal career is etched in sports history, with a staggering list of accolades to his name. With 18 NBA All-Star selections, five NBA Championships, and multiple MVP and Finals MVP honors, his contributions to the game are unparalleled. Moreover, Bryant continues to hold numerous franchise records for the Lakers in areas such as regular season games played, points, 3-pointers, steals, and free throws.
The retirement of his iconic No. 8 and No. 24 jerseys by the Lakers in 2017 already solidified Bryant’s place among the team’s legends. Now, with the unveiling of the bronze statue, Bryant’s legacy will be further enshrined for generations to come.
As the date draws near, fans eagerly await more details about the ceremony. Undoubtedly, the unveiling of the Kobe Bryant statue will be a momentous occasion, uniting fans in celebrating the life and impact of a basketball icon.
Swerd Media will provide updates on the ceremony as more information becomes available.
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