Los Angeles Lakers youngster Kyle Kuzma is still grieving after the untimely passing of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, but he knows they must continue and honor the legacy of the Black Mamba.
Speaking to Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet, Kuz opened up about using basketball to help him and the Lakers cope with the loss of Kobe. The 24-year-old forward highlighted the value of basketball for him and for the majority of the Purple and Gold and how it has always provided them with an escape.
Asked Kuz how hooping can help LAL cope w/t loss of Kobe: “That’s what basketball is for. A lot of us grew up in challenging neighborhoods, tough environments, tough family backgrounds … when you step in between the lines, it’s a safe haven. It was for me growing up. Still is.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 2, 2020
The Lakers played their first game since the tragic passing of Bryant on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers. It was undoubtedly an emotional night for the team, as they also honored a franchise legend that helped made what the Purple and Gold are today.
While the team lost the contest against the Blazers, it was a crucial step for the team as they move forward and continue their quest for a championship — something that will surely make Kobe proud.
Kuzma had an inspired game against the Blazers on Friday, finishing with 17 points and 15 rebounds in a losing effort.
It will take time for the Lakers to really move on from the devastating incident, and even when they manage to go through it together, there will certainly be some pain left. After all, Kobe is more than just a fellow Laker but also an inspiration to them.
However, as NBA players just like the Black Mamba, they can do more to honor Kobe by continuing to play and grown the game he loves.
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