Kobe Bryant’s legacy continues to be celebrated beyond the world of sports.
The Naismith Basketball Hall-of-Famer inspired generations of athletes and many others with his “Mamba Mentality,” which has helped people navigate through difficult times.
On Saturday, Aug. 23, he would have celebrated his 47th birthday. Bryant has also been immortalized with Kobe Bryant Day (8/24 in honor of the two jersey numbers he wore), which was officially declared in Orange County, the area of Southern California he called home, and in the City of Los Angeles, where he became a superstar during his 20-year career with the Lakers.
Below are some ways to celebrate Mr. Bryant for Mamba Day 2024.
Visit Kobe Bryant Murals
When words fail, art speaks
Parts of Los Angeles are sprinkled in purple and gold in honor of Kobe and Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, as artists have created beautiful work to channel their grief. There are hundreds of Kobe Bryant murals across Southern California, including one that was recently unveiled in Redondo Beach. Several of these murals also feature Gigi, who aspired to play in the WNBA.
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See a map of mural locations below.
Visit the Kobe Bryant statues outside the Crypto.com Arena
One of the first things you may notice outside the Crypto.com Arena is the shiny and tall Kobe Bryant statue that’s larger than life, just as he was. The first Kobe Bryant statue was unveiled on Feb. 8, 2024, which honored Kobe and Gigi’s basketball jersey numbers. The Lakers announced there would be three statues to honor Bryant and the second was unveiled on Aug. 2 (8/2/24), which also includes Gigi by his side.
Support the LA Sparks
Kobe Bryant was an advocate for women’s sports and during his final appearance at Staples Center, he wore an orange sweatshirt with the WNBA logo. As the proud father of four daughters, he coached Gigi’s basketball team. The two, along with her teammates and their parents, were on their way to a basketball tournament when tragedy struck on the morning of Sunday, Jan. 26. Fans can keep Bryant’s vision alive by supporting women’s sports.
The Sparks are currently on a six-day break and return to action on Tuesday, Aug.26 for a game against the Phoenix Mercury.