LA Lakers honour Kobe Bryant in first game since the former player’s death
A ceremony was held at Staples Centre before tip-off against the Portland Trail Blazers.
The Mamba Mentality was alive and well at Staples Centre as the Los Angeles Lakers paid tribute to former player Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna before Friday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
Thousands of fans paid their respects outside the stadium amid a sea of purple and gold, while players wiped away tears on the court.
The tribute began with each member of the Lakers lineup introduced as “number eight, Kobe Bryant”, before R&B artist Usher sang Amazing Grace in front of number eight and number 24 yellow rose arrangements.
The pre-game ceremony concluded with a speech from Lakers forward LeBron James.
“I look at this as a celebration tonight,” he said.
“Kobe is a brother to me. The one thing we always shared was that determination to just want to win.
The game itself saw Damian Lillard guide Portland to a 127-119 victory with an inspired performance.
Lillard finished with 48 points and 10 assists while Anthony Davis top-scored for the Lakers with 37.
