THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Los Angeles Lakers’ a professional basketball team (NBA) are overjoyed as Head Coach JJ Redick makes announcements of making famous player Kobe Bean Bryant the……view more

THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Los Angeles Lakers Overjoyed as Head Coach JJ Redick Announces Special Tribute to Kobe Bryant

In a heartfelt moment that stirred emotions throughout the basketball world, Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick announced a groundbreaking tribute to the late Kobe Bean Bryant, solidifying the NBA legend’s legacy within the fabric of the franchise.

At a press conference held at the Lakers’ training facility in El Segundo, Redick—who took over head coaching duties last season—shared that the team would be honoring Bryant in an unprecedented way: naming him an honorary “Lifetime Captain” of the Los Angeles Lakers. The move, while symbolic, reflects the enduring impact Kobe has had on the team, the league, and the global basketball community.

“Kobe was more than just a player. He was the soul of this franchise,” said Redick. “His dedication, work ethic, and mentality continue to influence our players every day. This is our way of keeping him with us—not just in memory, but in leadership.”

A Legacy that Lives On

Though Kobe Bryant tragically passed away in January 2020, his presence remains ever-present at the Lakers’ facility. From murals across Los Angeles to his retired jerseys (#8 and #24) hanging in the rafters at Crypto.com Arena, Bryant’s legend continues to inspire both seasoned players and rookies alike.

In addition to naming Bryant a “Lifetime Captain,” the Lakers organization announced a new initiative called The Mamba Standard—a mentorship and leadership program designed to instill Bryant’s values in the next generation of Lakers. The initiative will involve film study, storytelling sessions from former teammates, and outreach with young players in the LA community.

Fans and Players React

The announcement was met with overwhelming positivity across social media, with the hashtag #MambaForever trending within hours.

Star forward Anthony Davis shared:

“Kobe taught us to lead by example. This tribute is perfect—he’s still leading us.”

Lakers newcomer and No. 2 overall pick Jaylen Hunter called the news “surreal,” adding that he watches Bryant’s 81-point game on repeat to get hyped before practices.

Even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement, commending the Lakers for “honoring one of the game’s greatest in a way that reflects both the spirit and values of the league.”

Looking Forward

While the team prepares for the upcoming season under Redick’s energetic leadership, the spirit of Kobe Bryant will now be an official part of every locker room meeting, pre-game huddle, and championship pursuit.

“We don’t just want to win games,” Redick emphasized. “We want to honor the game—and no one represented that more than Kobe.”