Story by: Sammy Approved
There was a certain eeriness and fog that hovered over the city of Los Angeles leading up to the tragic death of legendary basketball player Kobe Bryant on Sunday, Jan. 26. No one expected to be commemorating his life or the life of his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. Though unexpected, it left many fans escaping to the memories of his last days on Earth. One lasting memory that hit close to home was his very last game December 4, 2015 in Atlanta at Philips Arena, which is now the newly renovated State Farm Arena.
Fans gathered in their Lakers gear and recorded his every move in and out of the arena with smartphones and digital cameras. It was a true celebration indeed, as Kobe spent his last NBA moment in the city that prides itself on black entrepreneurial success and leadership. The city was fitting for a celebration. So fitting (and maybe a bit cliche) that after the game, Kobe treated his wife Vanessa to Waffle House for her first time. It is said that Bryant enjoyed many of Atlanta’s restaurants during his trips to the city.
For years, Kobe used his well-known phrase “mamba mentality” on the court, but in retirement he used the same mentality to become a best-selling author, award-winning producer and influential investor. To celebrate Kobe's retirement, the Hawks and Zoo Atlanta came together to honor the basketball legend by naming the zoo's actual black mamba after him.
“Mr. Bryant is a legend on the court, and the black mamba is a legend in the wild,” said Zoo Atlanta CEO Raymond B. King.
Beyond his professional success, he quickly became a global mentor and leader amongst the athletic community. After retirement, Bryant made a huge effort to be an active father in his daughters' lives, and focused on coaching and nurturing their athletic talents. The late Gianna Bryant was on the rise to becoming a legend in her own right, and an inspiration to young female athletes. She inspired Kobe to actively help and encourage female athletes across different sports.
Kobe also extended his love to Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young. The two were introduced after Kobe noticed his daughter Gianna’s love and fandom for the rising star.
Through tragedy, we remember his last game in Phillips, the last words he shared with us and the impact he continues to leave with the world. It brought a certain sadness and reflection across the world that will be felt for a lifetime. This tragedy also brought about a shift in many people's mind-frame, encouraging that mamba mentality, competitiveness, and motivation to win across several industries, not just sports.
After celebrating five championships and 20 years with the Lakers at the Staples Center, it is only fitting to celebrate both his legacy and Gianna’s on 2/24/2020 in the arena that he helped build. Atlanta is grateful to have been a part of his legendary career and some of his last moments in the game.