“We didn’t just lose a basketball player. This was someone who was becoming a pillar of the community beyond athleticism,” Isaac Bryan, who directs the Black Policy Project at the University of California, said after Kobe Bryant’s death. “It’s hard to find things for black people in LA to look up to. We don’t have those historic leaders the way we once did.” But Kobe wasn’t just an icon for L. A and the recent honor might just prove it. Unforgettable Gala will honor him with The Community Impact Award for his impact on the API community. But he’ll not be the only Lakers legend there, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Byron Scott all will receive the honor.

Speaking of the Unforgettable Gala, this prestigious event has become a vital space for recognizing achievements in the API community across entertainment, arts, and culture. Produced by GoldenTV and Character Media, this year’s gala, scheduled for Dec. 14, is all about increasing representation. “The greatest mission for us is to really bring its visibility to mainstream,” shared Takashi Cheng, CEO of GoldenTV, emphasizing the event’s role in inspiring younger generations by highlighting these powerful role models.

But why these Lakers legends? As the Unforgettable Gala team explains, their recognition goes beyond sports. “Lakers Legends @OfficialByronScott, @KareemAbdulJabbar_33, @MagicJohnson and the late @KobeBryant have gone above and beyond not just in basketball, but also in their allyship for the API community.”

From Byron Scott coaching basketball across Asia to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar tackling Asian stereotypes in Hollywood, their actions have reverberated far and wide. Magic Johnson’s advocacy for API-owned small businesses is yet another testament to his leadership. And, of course, Kobe—an idol not just for basketball fans but for many Asian Americans—showed that true impact transcends borders.

The gala will take place at the Beverly Hilton and air nationwide on Dec. 18 on ChimeTV. But thier contribution doesn’t limited to API community. Now let’s look at how Kobe and others’ impact goes beyond it.

Kobe Bryant’s impact as an activist

Kobe Bryant openly promoted mental health, urging fans to share their struggles and tackle stigmas around emotional well-being. On his podcast, The Punies, Kobe created a platform to discuss these challenges and inspire listeners. But that’s not all—his passion for supporting women’s basketball was clear as he proudly wore WNBA gear and cheered on his daughters during their games. Through the Mamba Sports Academy and initiatives like After-School All-Stars, he gave scholarships to kids, took them to Lakers games, and raised funds for youth programs.

Beyond basketball, Kobe had a global reach through The Kobe Bryant China Fund, which raised money for children’s education, sports, and cultural initiatives in China and the U.S. He was also a tireless volunteer, lending his time to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, NBA Cares, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Whether at home or abroad, Kobe’s activism left a profound impact on young lives everywhere.

Not far behind, Magic Johnson has carved out his incredible path as an activist. Recently, he auctioned off custom sneakers for a staggering $1 million to support underserved kids. And just last year, he donated $600,000 to Delaware State University.

And let’s not forget Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. With his Skyhook Foundation, he’s helping inner-city kids in L.A. explore STEM education. Meanwhile, Byron Scott is passing on his knowledge to the next generation of basketball players, mentoring young athletes with a commitment to helping them succeed. Bryant and his peers remind us that true greatness happens both on and off the court.