Kobe Bryant. A husband and father first, but also an NBA player and Southern California Icon. The Black Mamba was a symbol of determination to follow your passion, and it was true for his entire life, which recently came to an end. On January 26, 2020, the world was shocked to learn about his passing in a helicopter accident, along with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna. The others lost in the accident were John, Keri, and Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah and Payton Chester, Christina Mauser, and Ara Zobayan.
Losing Kobe Bryant made Los Angeles, the NBA, and people all around the world stop in time. Those who knew him watched him and respected him all felt the hurt of losing someone who made such an impact on this generation’s culture. Bryant retired from the Los Angeles Lakers in 2016 after 20 years and five championships. He had just begun his life after basketball, which included coaching his daughter Gianna’s basketball team. Fans flooded to the Los Angeles Staples Center wearing Lakers jerseys and brought with them flowers, memorabilia, and art after hearing the news. Almost a month after the tragedy, artists have created murals of Kobe and Gianna, all around the world. He retired from the Los Angeles Lakers in 2016 and had just begun his life after basketball, which included coaching his daughter Gianna’s basketball team.
The heart of Los Angeles beats through the bond of love shared for Kobe Bryant and his entire family. He left behind his wife, Vanessa, and daughters Natalia, Bianka, and Capri. But he also leaves behind a legacy of greatness, skilled perfection, and mental strength that you can feel when looking at the many murals found across the city. Here are #24 of our favorite works of art in the Southern California area to remember Black Mamba and Mambacita:
🎨 @rask_opticon 📸 @kobemural
📍22505 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance
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“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” – Kobe Bryant
🎨 @alex_ali_gonzalez 📸 @kobemural
📍1921 N Highland Ave, Hollywood (Holiday Inn)
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“I’ve always thought he was the best player in basketball. I don’t think it’s even close.” – NBA coach Alvin Gentry
🎨 @tykewitnesawr 📸 @kobemural
📍739 W 19th St, Costa Mesa
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“I’m reflective only in the sense that I learn to move forward. I reflect with a purpose.” – Kobe Bryant
🎨 @never1959 📸@nickcastillo96
📍1334 Lebanon St, Downtown Los Angeles (near Staples)
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“I see a lot of myself in him. No doubt about it.” – NBA legend Michael Jordan
🎨 @shanegrammerarts 📸 @kobemural
📍7753 Melrose Ave, LA
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“The important thing is that your teammates have to know you’re pulling for them and you really want them to be successful.” – Kobe Bryant
🎨 @royyaldog 📸 @royyaldog
📍800 E 4th St at Alameda, DTLA
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“Once you know what failure feels like, determination chases success.” – Kobe Bryant
🎨 @downtowndaniel 📸@writebeaton
📍2471 Whittier Blvd, Boyle Heights (Holiday Bar)
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“To my forever Valentine, I love you so much. Missing you so much on your favorite holiday. Te amo per sempre. Kisses to you and Gigi in heaven. Happy Valentine’s Day, my babies. With all my love, your boo-boo. ❤️” – Vanessa Bryant
🎨 @sloe_motions 📸 @sloe_motions
📍400 W Pico, DTLA (Hardcore Fitness)
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