When the world lost Kobe Bryant on January 26, it lost more than a basketball player. It lost an international icon.
When the NBA fraternity lost him, though, they lost a friend, a mentor and an, for many, their inspiration.
Bryant would have celebrated his 42nd birthday on Sunday, and especially considering the fact that August 23, 2020 was the first birthday Bryant would have celebrated if not for his death, it was an emotional day.
The next day, August 24 — or 8/24 written numerically — has been dubbed “Mamba Day” by the NBA community. Twitter recognized the day with special hashtags and, for the second consecutive day, the late Bryant was paid the respect due to the legend.
Interestingly enough, the Lakers happened to be playing Game 4 against the Portland Trail Blazers in their best-of-seven first round series, and it stands to reason that Paul was somewhere watching the game.
Led by a spirited effort from LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers jumped on the Blazers early and made it obvious that they came to dominate. During the game’s first quarter, though, something miraculous happened, and Chris Paul himself noticed.
Leading 22-8, by virtue of a layup from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Lakers took a 24-8 lead over Portland.
“Bean is ALWAYS watching!!! Miss you my brother 8/24,” Paul tweeted during the contest. For those who don’t know, Bean is Bryant’s middle name.
Bean is ALWAYS watching!!! Miss you my brother. 🙏🏾 8/24 pic.twitter.com/YtHJVMD3SB
— Chris Paul (@CP3) August 25, 2020
Maybe it’s a strange coincidence, but it certainly couldn’t have happened on a better day.
