This week the Los Angeles Lakers won their 17th National Title after defeating the Miami Heat for the championship win. But the win had a deeper meaning for the Lakers and fans, as the athletes played for the late Kobe Bryant as well.
“This historic 2020 NBA championship belongs to the Los Angeles Lakers!” pic.twitter.com/LVmDZ3BB6s
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 12, 2020
“Kobe, I know he’s looking down on us super proud,” said Anthony Davis. “We miss him, and this is definitely for him. Ever since the tragedy, all we wanted is to do it for him, and we didn’t let him down.”
After the championship win, fans wearing Bryant’s iconic jersey flocked the streets of downtown Los Angeles; some chanted his name, “Kobe! Kobe!” loud and proud. Fans also gathered near the mural for Bryant and his daughter Gianna to celebrate the win.
LAKESHOW CELEBRATIONS 🟣🟡🏀🏆
Los Angeles Lakers fans gathered outside the Staples Center and a mural of the late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant with his daughter Gianna to celebrate the team's 17th NBA championship.
📷: Getty Images via AFP/Brandon Bell pic.twitter.com/mfXOuGSUzV
— Philstar.com (@PhilstarNews) October 12, 2020
“Kobe and Gianna’s legacy will last forever,” said Rob Pelinka, the Laker’s general manager. “It will impact lives around the world in positive ways, and this Lakers championship in 2020 is partly to build on that legacy and honor them. The moment couldn’t be any more special to do that for them.
“Kobe’s voice is always in my head, always, every day, every minute. For us to be able to win this championship doesn’t take away the sting of the loss, but what it does is it helps us add to their legacy.”
