Getty Images LeBron James and Kobe Bryant before the London 2012 Olympics
The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up a strong victory over the Atlanta Hawks in last night’s game, 122-101. With big numbers put up by Lakers star LeBron James, strong defense, and an exciting dunk by Lakers shooting guard Danny Green, the team was able to breeze by and add to their impressive record, now sitting at 11-2.
The players on the court weren’t the only ones who created buzz last night, though. It was a fan in the stands who received a great amount of attention – none other than Lakers legend Kobe Bryant who sat courtside and watched the new-look Lake Show. After the game, NBA legend in the making, King James spoke about his admiration for the former Lakers player.
Per Ben Golliver of the Washington Post detailed James’ statements.
“I grew up watching him, admiring him. I was one of the kids who came from high school. He did it. It’s so surreal for me as a kid from Akron to have a guy like Kobe take time out of his day. Even at this point of my career it’s still special”
Lakers’ LeBron James on Kobe Bryant: “I grew up watching him, admiring him. I was one of the kids who came from high school. He did it. It’s so surreal for me as a kid from Akron to have a guy like Kobe take time out of his day. Even at this point of my career it’s still special”
King James Lauds the Black Mamba
James had a lot to say about Bryant being in attendance at the Staples Center for their game against the Hawks. ESPN detailed that James said it was “so surreal” to play in front of Bryant last night. James continued to say that the Mamba was “like an inspiration to him” growing up.
LeBron described playing in front of Kobe last tonight as “so surreal.”
@KingJames shared his admiration of @kobebryant with @LakersTalkESPN.
James didn’t just laud Bryant when he was questioned during his post-game interviews. He also took to his own Instagram to praise the Lakers legend. He captioned his post, “I’m just trying to continue the legacy you left behind in the purple and gold. At the same time make you proud!!”
James did just that as he put on a spectacular show last night, racking up 33 points, 12 assists, seven rebounds, one steal and one block.
Kobe Bryant’s Return to the Staples Center
Kobe Bryant didn’t just make a huge impression on James he also surprised other Lakers members and fans in the crowd. As soon as the announcer announced Bryant as their special guest in the audience, fans roared in the stands with excitement. As Lakers reporter Mike Trudell reported, Lakers head coach Frank Vogel said he “got chills when the crowd started going nuts at his presence.”
Fans didn’t stop there. They even applauded Bryant and gave him a standing ovation as he was exiting the game.
Staples Center gives Kobe a standing O as he walks out 👏
Other Lakers players also had a few words about the Mamba being in the crowd last night.
Per ESPN, Lakers center Anthony Davis said, “I mean, it’s great. I never thought I’d be playing here in such an iconic franchise and have the opportunity to do something great here. Obviously, it’s going to be nothing compared to what Kobe’s done here, but just trying to write my own story and take it game by game, year by year and just keep building.”
Bryant played with the Los Angeles Lakers for the entirety of his 20 year NBA career. He began playing with them in 1996 and retired in 2016. The Black Mamba is an L.A. legend as he is a 12-time All-Star, five-time NBA champion and the 2008 league MVP. He has career averages of 25 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists a game. Bryant also holds almost every Lakers scoring record, including career points, 33,643.