“Not Only Kobe (Bryant)”: Magic Johnson Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Overlooked Influence on Special Statue Unveiling

The Lakers’ bronze statue of Kobe Bryant pointing his finger at the sky is like him pointing at the future he built for the basketball players. The pose captures one of the best moments of the Black Mamba when he scored 81 points. Moments after the event, LA icon Magic Johnson, who was the first Laker to get a statue, shared a heartfelt note to appreciate one important name behind this creation.

While everyone spoke about Bryant’s profound influence, Johnson also shined the spotlight on Kobe’s wife, Vanessa Bryant. Taking to his Instagram, Johnson, on his wife’s behalf, praised the efforts and dedication put forth by her.

Sharing an image of him and his wife posing in front of the newly unveiled statue, Johnson wrote, “Cookie and I were so impressed with his wife Vanessa’s grace, class, and her beautiful speech about not only Kobe but their beautiful daughters.” He added, “Vanessa put together an outstanding ceremony. We were also so impressed with how Vanessa and Lakers Owner Jeanie Buss designed Kobe’s statue.”

This is the first of three statues that will be built in honor of the 5x champion. The first represents Kobe’s playing time and life as the player wearing no.8. Vanessa has truly given her all to make this moment unforgettable. After all, it was a historic moment for the Los Angeles Lakers and the Bryant family. Kobe has taken his place among the greats with the unveiling of his statue outside Crypto.com Arena. He officially joined the prestigious lineup of legends, including Shaquille O’Neal, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, and Chick Hearn, solidifying his everlasting legacy in Lakers history.

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The ceremony was not only a visual spectacle but a heartfelt tribute, with fans cheering his name outside. Dwyane Wade, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jamal Crawford, and Johnson were also in attendance. Magic even shared what his favorite part of the new statue was.

Magic Johnson revealed his favorite element of Kobe Bryant’s statue

Speaking of his favorite element of Bryant’s statue, Johnson shared, “I love the five trophies, but then the stone below him, all the accomplishments.” He added, “I think that was special. Vanessa did an amazing job because a lot of people would have never seen him play, in terms of young people.”

For two decades, Bryant poured his heart and soul into crafting an enduring legacy. Vanessa, in her speech, eloquently described the profound impact 18 x NBA All-Star had on aspiring young basketball players. A special QR code leading to a video of Bryant, narrated by none other than the distinguished Denzel Washington, along with a display of all his accolades, are all part of Vanessa’s efforts and influence.

What are your thoughts on Magic’s post? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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