LeBron James understands better than most what it means to carry on Kobe Bryant‘s legacy.
The age-old anecdote about your idols becoming your rivals certainly held true for the athletes over the years; the 35-year-old went from an adoring fan of Bryant’s while still in high school to his friendly competitor on the court after he was drafted to the Cleveland Cavaliers. That all changed when James switched teams to join the Los Angeles Lakers organization in 2018, which allowed a then-retired Kobe to pass the torch as the two remained connected over their longtime love for the game.
In a touching Instagram tribute dedicated to the late NBA legend shared on Monday night, LeBron broke his silence on the horrific tragedy that claimed the life of his dear friend and basketball idol.
Related: Watch Kobe Bryant Talk ‘Inspiring Kids’ In Final Interview Ever
James’ heartfelt post began full of emotion and with a special shoutout to 13-year-old Gianna Bryant, who was among the eight other victims who perished in the fatal helicopter crash in Calabasas on Sunday morning. He wrote:
“I’m Not Ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had!”
The all-star power-forward continued, revealing his last conversation with Kobe took place on Sunday morning as he and the Lakers were headed back to LA, having played the Philadelphia 76ers the night before.
“I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. WTF!! I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!! 😢😢😢😢💔”
Quick important note: that Philly game referenced was a huge moment for both men as James passed Bryant for third place on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
He continued:
“Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man!“
LeBron’s message concluded with a promise to Kobe fans everywhere:
“You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation💜💛 and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!! Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!! #Mamba4Life❤️🙏🏾 #Gigi4Life❤️🙏🏾”
Ugh. Such beautiful words!
As we mentioned earlier, the pair’s final conversation happened after their team played in Bryant’s hometown of Philadelphia.
As it turned out, the last tweet Kobe ever sent was congratulating James for the special win. He wrote:
“Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother 💪🏾 #33644”
With those parting words, we can imagine LeBron is deeply saddened yet equally motivated to make his late friend proud.
James and the rest of the Lakers team were due to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, but the league announced they are postponing the game out of respect for the players and allow a period of grieving. The two clubs are scheduled for another meeting on the hardwood later this week on Friday.
R.I.P. Kobe.
[Image via NBA/YouTube.]
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