UCLA Health is continuing its heartwarming tradition of celebrating Kobe Bryant’s birthday by honoring babies born on August 23. This year, which would have been Bryant’s 45th birthday, infants born at UCLA Health this week are receiving adorable Los Angeles Lakers merchandise as a tribute to the “Mamba.”
The Lakers have shared photos of the newborns dressed in No. 8 beanies and shirts labeled “Little LAker,” welcoming the newest Lakers fans into the world. This marks the fourth consecutive year that UCLA Health and the Lakers have joined forces to commemorate Bryant’s legacy.
On dates significant to Kobe Bryant, the entire Los Angeles Lakers community often pays tribute to the legendary guard. This year, LeBron James is also taking a moment to remember Bryant on what would have been his 46th birthday. On Friday, James shared a tribute on X (formerly Twitter) featuring a snake emoji, a nod to Bryant’s nickname, “The Black Mamba.” He also posted on Instagram, sharing a throwback image from the 2008 Olympics, where he led a birthday sing-along for Bryant, who was seen holding his daughter.
The dynamic between James and Bryant is notable, as their careers did not overlap in their prime, nor did their teams face off in an NBA Finals. However, their combined star power had a significant impact on the NBA. Their Olympic collaboration, particularly the 2008 Beijing Games where they won gold medals together, is memorable for fans and highlights the deep connection between the two stars.
James led the Lakers to a championship in 2020, just over nine months after Bryant, his daughter, and seven others tragically died in a helicopter crash. For James, the championship win was more than a basketball achievement; it was a poignant tribute to his friend and fellow basketball great.
