NBA players are defined by their basketball skills, but they have always had a love for other sports. Whether it’s Steph Curry and his eye-catching golf skills, or Steve Nash and his near-impeccable soccer technique, it isn’t too much of a surprise to see players front row at other sporting events on their off days. Kobe Bryant was one such player. The former Los Angeles Lakers star was unmatched in terms of his love for basketball. What many forget was how much Bryant loved the game of baseball, especially the Los Angeles Dodgers. Recently, his wife Vanessa took to Instagram to thank the Dodgers for their special gesture.

Kobe’s love affair with the Dodgers started back in 2000 when he was invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch, merely a week after he won his first NBA title with the Lakers.

Vanessa Bryant thanks Dodgers for exclusive “Mamba” jerseys

For their annual ‘Lakers Night’ celebration on the 1st of September, the $4.8 billion worth franchise has revealed a limited edition set of jerseys, inspired by Kobe Bryant. Said to be an homage to the Lakers’ jerseys in their 2020 Championship run, these limited edition shirts will have both of Bean’s numbers, 8 and 24, with the former on the front and the latter on the back, under his name.

The jerseys, a change from the usual white that the Dodgers wear, are black with gold trim, and sport mamba scales – a tribute to Bryant’s nickname ‘The Black Mamba’.

Upon hearing the news of the Dodgers’ gesture, Bryant’s wife Vanessa took to Instagram to thank the team, along with the Lakers and the NBA. “Thank you @dodgers !!!  @lakers & @nba. See you September 1!”, she wrote, sharing the post with her 15.2 million followers, expressing her gratitude to both the teams for their continued efforts to remember her late husband.

Watch Story: LA Dodgers Honor Mamba Legacy Weeks After Honoring LeBron James

Since the 5x NBA Champion’s passing in January 2020, his wife has ensured she carries forward his legacy in all aspects of the game, ensuring that Bryant’s name will not be forgotten. These limited edition jerseys will not be available stadium-wide, but only to fans who buy the special ticket package.

What are your thoughts on the Los Angeles Dodgers’ heartfelt gesture for the Bryant family? Let us know in the comments below.

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