More than five years removed from Kobe Bryant’s tragic death, sports fans are still mourning his untimely passing in a helicopter crash that killed seven others, including his daughter Gigi.
One way they’ve honored him is through murals around the world, but perhaps none more special than the ones spotted around Los Angeles. Though it’s the city he spent his entire NBA career in as a Laker, a mural in downtown LA —entitled “Mambas Forever” at 14th and Main Street— has been destroyed.
The mural originally depicted a loving moment between a father and daughter, with the Laker legend embracing her with a kiss on the cheek while palming a basketball. Now, white paint has been tossed over it, along with a sprawling graffiti tag.
TMZ reports that the canvas has now become a battleground between street artists. The original artist’s name appears to be crossed out, with a message reading, “Keep running your mouth, p-ssy.”
In response, someone else wrote, “Leave a name, p-ssy! Don’t B scared.”
A GoFundMe launched by Louie Palsino urges the community to help restore the mural.
“I am reaching out to the community to help restore the beautiful Kobe & Gigi mural that has brought inspiration and unity to so many. This mural was a special collaboration with the NFL for Super Bowl LVI,” the plea reads alongside photos of Vanessa Bryant visiting the mural. “Over time, the mural has faced wear and tear, and I am eager to bring it back to its original glory. Your generous donations will go directly towards the materials needed for the restoration process, including high-quality paints, sealants, and other essential supplies.”
The fund’s goal was 5,000, so newly minted Los Angeles Laker Luka Doncic decided to cough up five stacks, citing how much the West Coast has offered him already despite only donning the uniform for about three months.
“It was always important to give back to the community,” Doncic told ESPN after a recent practice at the Lakers’ facility. “They gave me so much, so I just want to give back.”
Palsino spoke to the Los Angeles Times after Doncic’s gracious offer, saluting him, adding, “I’m sure this alone will have him in the hearts of everyone in Los Angeles.”
According to KTLA work to restore the mural has already begun after it was covered with black paint, signaling a fresh start.
The Lakers are currently down 3-1 in a series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but they are hoping to pull themselves out of a slump and lead a run that adds to the five championships that Bryant delivered during his 20-year career.
