Before stepping onto the court for one of the most highly anticipated games of the season, Kyrie Irving took a moment to pay tribute to his late mentor, Kobe Bryant, and Bryant’s daughter, Gigi.
As the Mavericks arrived at Crypto.com Arena for their clash against the Lakers, Irving visited the Kobe and Gigi Bryant statue outside the arena, showing his deep respect for the Lakers legend who played an instrumental role in shaping his mentality and approach to the game.
Irving has always spoken fondly of Kobe, often crediting him as one of his greatest influences. The two shared a strong bond, with Bryant serving as a mentor to the star guard during key points in his career.
Whether it was discussing footwork, mid-range mastery, or simply the mental fortitude needed to compete at the highest level, Bryant’s wisdom left a lasting impact on Irving. By paying tribute before a game against the Lakers—Kobe’s franchise—it was a fitting way for Irving to honor his legacy.
The unveiling of the Bryant family statue last summer was an emotional moment for Lakers fans and the entire basketball world. Bryant’s tragic passing in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, alongside Gigi and seven others, left an unfillable void in the sport. The statue serves as a permanent reminder of its impact, and for players like Irving, it is a place of reflection and remembrance.
While the focus of the night may be on Luka Doncic’s first game against his former team, Irving's tribute reminds everyone that there are bigger things in life than basketball.
This matchup between the Mavericks and Lakers carries plenty of emotional weight. Irving and Doncic were once viewed as one of the best duos in the NBA, having led Dallas to the NBA Finals last season.
While all eyes are on Doncic’s first game against the Mavericks since his shocking trade, Irving has his own motivations heading into this contest. Since the departure of Doncic, Irving has taken on an even greater leadership role in Dallas, adjusting his game to fit alongside Anthony Davis. He acknowledged the emotions surrounding the matchup but made it clear that he remains focused on competing at the highest level.
The Mavericks are in a transition phase after the trade, with Irving now playing a leading role alongside Davis. While injuries have limited the duo’s time together, Irving has already seen the potential of their partnership with AD.
As he steps onto the court, Irving carries the wisdom and spirit of Kobe with him. Whether it’s his footwork, competitive fire, or unwavering confidence in clutch moments, Bryant’s influence is evident in Irving’s game. His pregame tribute was a simple yet powerful gesture, showing that even five years after his passing, Kobe Bryant’s presence is still deeply felt in the basketball world.
