LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers entered Friday's home game versus the Portland Trail Blazers with a whirlwind of emotions following the tragic death of basketball legend Kobe Bryant.
During the national anthem inside Staples Center, James let all the emotions out as he shed tears for his dearest friend. The four-time MVP even pointed to the sky, a clear ode to Bryant.
Prior to tip-off, the Lakers honored the memory of the late all-time great, who perished in a harrowing helicopter crash along with daughter Gianna and seven others last Sunday.
The Lakers came out for the pre-game introductions wearing the Black Mamba's iconic no. 8 and no.24 jerseys. Before the game, it was also revealed that the team would be wearing new jersey patches in honor of Kobe.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis, meanwhile, also immortalized Bryant's legacy by getting “Black Mamba” tattoos.
The Lakers are still the number one ranked team in the Western Conference with a 36-10 record entering Friday. Apart from trying to get the W against the Blazers, the best tribute they can give to Kobe Bryant is to win the NBA championship this season.
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