The Los Angeles Lakers struggled for a while in the post-Shaq era. It wasn’t until the 2008 season when Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol joined forces that the Lakers achieved some success.
The duo won back-to-back titles in the 2009 and 2010 seasons, where Pau was the perfect sidekick for Kobe. In his stay at the Lakers, the Spaniard averaged an efficient 17.7 points coupled with 9.9 boards a game.
Kobe and Pau had a great relationship both on and off the court. Both players have frequently referred to each other as brothers.
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Moreover, Pau is among the handful of players that Bryant kept in contact with after his playing days. Gasol has proved time and time again the definition of friendship.
How Pau Gasol proved he is truly a brother of Kobe Bryant
After the tragic passing of both Kobe and Gigi, Pau has been there to take care of the Bryant family. He has taken care of Vanessa Bryant like his own sister. Recently, Gasol and his wife visited San Francisco to enjoy a lovely trip with the Bryant family. Paul posted a picture on his Twitter account with a touching caption. This heartwarming picture was welcomed by NBA fans all around the globe.
Here is what the caption said:
“My wife, my future baby, my sister and my nieces. So much beauty in one picture”
My wife, my future baby, my sister and my nieces. So much beauty in one picture #Family ❤️ pic.twitter.com/igQVqNfHVN
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) August 21, 2020
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Pau has been there at every step for Kobe’s family. Earlier this year, Pau even sent Vanessa a set of flowers on her first wedding anniversary without her husband.
Gasol has proved what it means to be a brother to his teammate, Kobe. The 2-time NBA champion was always under-appreciated for his efforts during his time with the Lakers. But that didn’t stop Kobe and Pau to forge an amazing off-court relationship.
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In fact, Kobe welcomed Pau into the team with an open heart. He even spoke to him in Spanish when he first arrived at the team.
Kobe Bryant might have passed away, but his legacy lives on.