A heartfelt tribute was extended to the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his beloved daughter Gigi, the Los Angeles Lakers are finalizing plans to unveil a statue outside Crypto.com Arena. The statue, which will symbolize their enduring legacy, is scheduled for an August 8, 2024 unveiling – a date that carries significant symbolism as it honors Kobe’s iconic jersey numbers, 8 and 24. This touching gesture comes three years after the tragic helicopter crash that claimed their lives, along with seven others.
Lakers owner Jeanie Buss had previously shared intentions to create a lasting memorial for Kobe Bryant, whose impact on the basketball world and beyond remains indelible. The source of this latest development, speaking to DailyMail.com, indicated that Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, is actively involved in the plans. However, the choice of artist for the statue has not yet been finalized.
While Lakers fans have been eagerly anticipating a tribute to the late athlete, the decision to wait until 2024 for the unveiling aligns with the sentiment of many who believed the timing should be especially significant.
This impending statue follows a previous homage that was placed at the site of the tragic helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. The original sculpture, a bronze masterpiece crafted by Southern California artist Dan Medina, depicted Kobe and Gigi in a heartwarming embrace. Standing as a testament to their bond, the statue included an inscription that reads, ‘heroes come and go but legends are forever,’ alongside the names of the crash victims.
Medina’s creation, weighing 150 pounds, provided solace to fans who visited the crash site to pay their respects. Its presence was accompanied by flowers, photographs, and heartfelt tributes from admirers. While the initial statue was a smaller version of Medina’s intended life-size sculpture, it stirred a sense of unity and reverence among those who mourned the loss of Kobe and Gigi.
The dedication to commemorating their legacy extends beyond physical memorials, as Kobe Bryant’s influence continues to inspire and uplift. The forthcoming statue at Crypto.com Arena stands as a beacon of remembrance and celebration, encapsulating the enduring impact of Kobe Bryant and his cherished daughter Gigi.
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Written by:
Dana Sterling-Editor
