Dear Kobe,
First of all, let me start with saying I am at a loss for words. When I read the headline that you had tragically passed, I had to re-read it and read it again. I waited, hoping that it was a horrible mistake. Although as the evening passed, a worst fear came to be. A young person losing his hero way too soon.
As a child, I had few loves and one of which was basketball. You were the reason for that. You were my hero and my idol. You were a huge part of me becoming the person and man that I am today. Your passion for what you loved to do birthed the love that I now cherish and have for the beautiful game of basketball.
You embodied a work ethic that is unmatched and showed me what it means to achieve excellence and strive for that every day. I didn’t have MJ, but I had you. Your career is some of the fondest moments intertwined with memories of my life. I watched you win three of your five championships. I cheered you on as you won MVP. I was astonished as you scored 81. I cried when you dropped 60 in your final game to walk off the court as a player for the last time. I watched you win an Oscar for pouring your heart out into a film.
My story and this letter is one of millions who feel the same. Sadly, this letter will never reach you. On Jan. 26, 2020, I lost someone who, while far away and I had never met, could be somewhat of a father figure or older brother and who was an inspiration to millions across the globe. Whether your impact will run deep as it does with me, or is just as deep as children across the world yell ‘Kobe!’ as they shoot paper into a trash can, your legacy and the Mamba mentality will live on forever.
Kobe Bean Bryant, thank you for what you have done for the game and the effect you had on lives all around the world. Your energy and essence was priceless and a blessing. My thoughts go out to Vanessa and your wonderful children. Mamba forever.
