By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Kobe Bryant’s sudden death has shocked the basketball community. From Europe to across the Atlantic and the rest of the world, teams, players and fans are paying their respects. As for the NBA, his impact was indeed massive, not only for his single professional team, the Los Angeles Lakers.
In the wake of his passing, the Dallas Mavericks owner, Mark Cuban announced that No.24 will be retired. “We are shocked and saddened by the devastating news of the passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna” he noted via statement published on Mavs.com.
“Kobe was an ambassador for our game, a decorated legend and a global icon. Above all, he was a loving and dedicated father,” added Cuban, “Kobe’s legacy transcends basketball, and our organization has decided that the number 24 will never again be worn by a Dallas Maverick.”
“Our hearts go out to all the lives lost and the families impacted by this terrible tragedy. We send our thoughts and prayers to Vanessa and the family, the Lakers organization and Kobe Bryant fans everywhere.”
Petition for league-wide jersey retirement
The Mavericks made their decision, but several NBA players and personalities would like its expansion. The movement proposes NBA to retire jersey number 24 for all teams across the league. In any case, number 24 will be forever linked with the greatness he displayed on the court, the kids he inspired to play basketball or other sports and his overall impact on teammates and opponents.
Numbers 8 and 24
Kobe actually wore No. 8 up to the 2006-07 season. He previously picked 24 at high school, but was forced to switch upon making his direct jump to the NBA with veteran forward George McCloud wearing number 24 at the time.
The Lakers retired both his numbers in December 2017. Out of his five NBA championships with the storied franchise, he was #8 in three occasions and #24 in the other two. He was crowned Finals MVP in 2009 and 2010 as well.
During his illustrious career also claimed a league MVP, 15 All-NBA selections, 12 All-Defensive selections, a couple of scoring titles and 18 All Star game nods. Competed in the NBA showing remarkable resiliency all the way from 1996 to 2016.