Taylor Swift is famous for her amazing songs and gripping performances. But there is one piece of memento that has captured the interest of fans and sports lovers alike. The championship banner that was gifted to her by late Lakers star Kobe Bryant. Swift’s relationship with Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines. But what happened to the banner that was supposed to stand proudly among Lakers’ title banners?
It came to people’s attention that the banner of Taylor Swift was missing. Although many fans were trolling the banner, it sure meant a lot to the pop sensation. So what happened to it?
Why did they remove the championship banner of Taylor Swift?
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Taylor Swift’s most famous moment came on August 21, 2015, in LA’s Staples Center (formerly Crypto.com Arena). Swift enjoyed a touching moment with Kobe and Vanessa Bryant’s 6-year-old daughter, Bianka, during her performance of “22” at SoFi Stadium. This heartwarming encounter signaled the start of a one-of-a-kind relationship between the pop phenomenon and the basketball legend.
Kobe Bryant honored Taylor Swift with her very own championship banner at the Staples Center on that magical night in 2015. He congratulated her on completing five sold-out gigs at the arena, bringing her total to 16 sold-out events. What made it even more special is that the Lakers had also won 16 titles at the time. They intended to hang the banner in the rafters to honor Swift’s accomplishments and connection to Los Angeles.
Congrats on record setting 16 sold out shows @taylorswift13! @STAPLESCenter raises a banner for you! #1989TourLA pic.twitter.com/AqvAbSvGgC
— Crypto.com Arena (@cryptocomarena) August 22, 2015
Taylor Swift’s banner, on the other hand, did not go down well with everyone. Fans were quick to express their displeasure, describing it as unreasonably huge and out of place. Swift’s banner, which was roughly the size of three Lakers championship banners, dominated the arena’s current decorations. The Clippers and Kings responded by covering the banner and the whole west rafters with player photos. The Lakers then won their 17th title, leaving no place in the rafters for Swift’s banner. Therefore, her banner was taken down and replaced. But what happened to that banner and where is it?
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Where is the banner now?
Lee Zeidman, president of Crypto.com Arena, just revealed the whereabouts of Taylor Swift’s missing banner. The flag has been securely folded and packed within the arena, with various other items. While Swift’s banner is now out of sight, there are plans to relocate it. After Crypto.com, Arena’s two-year refurbishment is complete. Organizers want to exhibit it prominently on the main floor. The idea is to provide fans with a photo opportunity where they may capture a moment with the famous banner. Even though many fans are not in favor of the banner in the first place, it is a sign of respect for the pop star and the legend Kobe Bryant.
Read More: Shaquille O?Neal?s Son Roars in Pride as Bronny James Celebrates Kobe Bryant?s Unwavering?Legacy
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Kobe Bryant gifted Taylor Swift with a championship banner, which will return to the Los Angeles arena after renovations for future events. Some supporters are looking forward to the banner’s reappearance, which will provide new memories and picture opportunities.
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