A Mamba Memorial

Photo by William Odis Martin

Laker Nation amassed Monday morning to bid its final farewell to Kobe and Gigi Bryant. I was blessed to be one of the 20,000 some odd fans welcomed into the Staples Center to celebrate Kobe’s life with his closest friends and family, a memory I intend to retain close to my heart until I meet my grave.

It was the ultimate culmination of nearly a month of grieving the fallen superstar and his beloved second oldest daughter, two of the nine people who perished in a helicopter accident in January.

The memorable event fatefully fell on 2/24/20-- a numerologists’ nocturnal emission. The number two is relevant for Gigi’s jersey number, while the 24 is for her dad, and 20 is for the number of years he dedicated to the purple and gold.

Beyoncé’s breathtaking performance opened the proceedings which truly set the tone. I could hear fellow mourners weeping all around me as her harmonies and angelic octaves serenaded us to shreds. She finished with a kiss up to the heavens to her longtime friend.

A visibly emotional Jimmy Kimmel was the perfect host as he successfully peppered in his lighthearted humor while maintaining the somberness of the special occasion. Hall of Fame speakers included NBA greats Shaquille O’Neal and Michael Jordan.

I fully expected Shaq to reflect and share some personal memories from his time sharing the court with his iconic teammate, but I was completely shocked that MJ made it a point to honor Kobe’s legacy.

It was a rare, 10-minute, heartfelt, soggy podium appearance by MJ, who praised Kobe’s competitive spirit and drive to be the best version of himself in all facets of life.

“In the game of basketball, in life, and as a parent, Kobe left nothing in the tank. He left it all on the floor,” remembered Jordan.

Jordan admitted that Kobe came off as a pesky little brother at first, always asking annoying questions, trying to pick their big brother’s brains. But MJ eventually grew into the new role Kobe created for him in his life and was proud to consider him a little brother. MJ looked forward to sharing his insights and expertise with his little bro anytime he asked.

“No matter where he saw me, it was a challenge,” recalled a teary-eyed Jordan. “And I admired him because of his passion. You rarely see someone who is looking and trying to improve each and every day, not just in sports but as a parent, as a husband. I am inspired by what he has done, what he has shared with Vanessa and with his kids.”

Rob Pelinka, Lakers general manager and one of Kobe’s closest friends, shared some of his most intimate memories with both Kobe and his goddaughter Gigi. He shared some of Kobe’s best qualities as a friend, father, and advocate for women’s athletics. He explained bearing witness to Mamba’s genius and obsessive drive which allowed him to accomplish the impossible.

Alicia Keys performed Beethoven’s“Moonlight Sonata” which Kobe learned to play by ear to impress the love of his life, Vanessa.

The Mom-ba was powerful and gracious. She was bold and embodied Kobe’s fearlessness as she shared their most precious memories with the city he adored.

Christina Aguilera performed one of the greatest renditions I have ever heard of “Ava Maria” in Italian before being awkwardly ushered off the stage just as she was about to address the audience. She seemed like she had something to say which was my only minute blemish from the two-hour celebration.

All of the proceeds from the sold out memorial went directly to the Mamba & Mambacita Foundation, which will be continuing its legacy by bringing positive impact through sports. To donate or learn more about the cause check out their website. https://mambamambacitasports.org