Los Angeles and Orange County are celebrating Kobe Bryant Day one day after what would have been the NBA superstar’s 42nd birthday.
Bryant’s family and fans are remembering the basketball legend on 8/24, which are the two jersey numbers he wore during his 20-year career with the NBA.
Fans around the world remembered Bryant on Sunday, which would have been his birthday.
Bryant was killed on January 26th in a helicopter crash, alongside his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and seven others while traveling to a youth basketball game in Ventura County.
His widow, Vanessa Bryant posted a moving tribute to her late husband on her Instagram page.
“To my baby ~ Happy birthday. I love you and miss you more than I can ever explain. I wish you and Gigi were here to celebrate YOU! I wish I could make you your fav food or a birthday cake with my Gigi. I miss your big hugs, your kisses, your smile, your loud ass deep laugh. I miss teasing you, making you laugh and bursting your bubble.,” she said.
“I miss you sitting on my lap like my big baby that you are. I think about your tenderness and patience all the time. I think about everything you would do in situations to help me deal with everything thrown my way. Thank you for growing up with me and teaching me how to be strong. How to try to see the best in people but cutout (SIC) the bs. Your thoughtful gestures and the amazing way you made us all feel is extremely missed.”
In 2016, the city of Los Angeles declared 8/24 Kobe Bryant Day. Earlier this month, Orange County did the same.
On my Instagram page, I did a special tribute to Bryant, noting that he was one of my absolute favourite basketball players.
How I’m Celebrating This Day
I spent the day watching old clips of Bryant on the basketball court. But, I also spent some time reading about his life.
There’s a wonderful book by the Los Angeles Daily News called Kobe Forever, which shows highlights from his life, and features many interesting interviews.
I am one of those people who loves quotes. And Bryant was good for more than a few of them.
The Philadelphia native was excellent in his craft and it showed in the things he said. He was very focused and disciplined and seemed to always go the extra mile. One of my favourite quotes talks about lazy people.
I laugh every time I read it because I couldn’t agree more. Maybe it’s a virgo thing, but I detest lazy people. I work hard and I actually enjoy being productive and setting and meeting my goals. So, when I encounter someone who doesn’t give their all, I get annoyed.
Apparently, Bryant felt the same way.
Today, I also decided to do a makeup dedication to Bryant. I applied some purple and gold eyeshadow, which are the LA Lakers’ signature colours.
I had to go the extra mile. Because I ain’t lazy. LOL.
XOXO,
This Bahamian Gyal
