The Kobe Bryant Statue is unveiled at Crypto Arena four years after his devastating death
On February 9, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, the Los Angeles Lakers unveiled a statue honoring the late Kobe Bryant at Crypto.com Arena. This statue commemorates the basketball legend, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in January 2020 along with his daughter Gianna.
The new statue, the second of three commissioned to honor Bryant, depicts him alongside his daughter Gianna. The father and daughter are seated, with angel wings spreading behind them. Bryant’s arm is around Gianna, and at the base of the statue, a quote from Bryant reads, “Gianna is a beast. She’s better than I was at her age. She’s got it. Girls are amazing. I would have five more girls if I could. I’m a girl dad.”
The date chosen for the unveiling of this statue, August 2, 2024, holds significance as 8 and 24 were the numbers Bryant wore during his illustrious career with the Lakers, and 2 was the number Gianna wore. This same symbolism was present when the Lakers unveiled the first Bryant statue outside their home venue.
In addition to the statue unveiling, on the same day, the locker used by Bryant during his final 13 NBA seasons sold at auction for a record-breaking $2.88 million. The locker, which was estimated to be worth between $1 million to $1.5 million, fetched a significant amount, highlighting the enduring legacy and impact of Kobe Bryant in the world of sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to honor and remember Bryant’s legacy through various tributes and memorials, ensuring that his influence on the game of basketball and beyond will never be forgotten.
