Ever since the Seattle SuperSonics left Seattle after the 2007-08 season, I haven’t been a huge fan of the NBA. As a sports fan who enjoys other sports like the NFL and MLB, the NBA has never given me a real reason to watch. My local team was basically ripped away from the city I grew up near. Outside of the occasional regular season game that has tons of headlines or the NBA Finals, I have little to no interest. 

The death of Kobe Bryant impacted me, despite all the reasons I don’t watch too much basketball. Kobe was someone who was important beyond the game of basketball or the NBA. Kobe was a leader who inspired multiple generations of not just basketball athletes, but all athletes. My generation, along with other generations, grew up shouting ‘Kobe!’ when we throw something in the trash.

The deaths of Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Ara Zobayan, Sarah Chester and Payton Chester will be remembered forever. In my opinion, it is the most impactful death in sports history. 

Kobe will leave behind an important legacy in Los Angeles, the United States and the world. The legacy of hard work, dedication and forgiveness. The courage to adapt and be strong. The wisdom of the game. The Mamba Mentality.