Kobe Bryant Day is a commemorative occasion celebrated every year as a tribute to the legacy of the acclaimed basketball athlete, Kobe Bryant. Each year on August 24th, we honor Kobe’s significant commitments and impacts on the sports world as decreed by the Los Angeles City Council in 2016. The distinctive choice of 8/24, aligns with Bryant’s unforgettable jersey numbers ‘8’ and ‘24’ he sported during his spectacular career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
More than just a celebration of Bryant’s impressive on-court prowess, this day also casts a spotlight on his relentless dedication and philanthropic acts off the court which made an everlasting impact on society and the sports community.
History of Kobe Bryant Day
Kobe Bryant Day was initially designated by Councilman José Huizar of Los Angeles in 2016 to celebrate the retirement of Bryant following a fantastic 20-year career in professional basketball, during which he exclusively represented the Los Angeles Lakers. This occasion is celebrated every year on the 24th of August, a date which signifies the two numbers - 8 and 24 - that Bryant sported during his tenure with the Lakers.
The selection of August 24 holds a particular fondness. The “8”, representative of the number Bryant sported when he first stepped onto the court as a Laker, also coincides with his birth month (August, the 8th month). Meanwhile, the number “24” is a nod to the second jersey number he wore during the latter portion of his career.
On this day, fans and admirers of Bryant’s prowess on the court pay tribute to his incredible basketball career and the indelible cultural impact he had on Los Angeles and the world at large. Throughout his career, Bryant cemented his place as one of the premier players in NBA history, clinching five championships, two gold medals in the Olympics, and being named MVP at the All-Star games four times.
The significance of Kobe Bryant Day was further heightened following the unfortunate and sudden death of Bryant in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. This devastating event, which also took the life of his 13-year old daughter Gianna, sent shockwaves through the world of sports and led to a global outpouring of tributes to his life and illustrious career. As a result, on Kobe Bryant Day in August 2020, the lawmakers in Orange County, California, where Bryant resided, officially proclaimed the day in his honor as well.
Kobe Bryant Day Timeline
Birth of Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant was born on August 23 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
NBA Draft
Kobe Bryant is picked up by Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 NBA draft and then immediately traded to The Los Angeles Lakers.
Three-peat Championships
The Lakers, led by Kobe and Shaquille o'Neal, win three consecutive NBA championships.
Scoring Career High
Kobe scores 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors, the second-most points scored in a single NBA game.
MVP Award
Kobe Bryant is awarded the NBA Most Valuable Player award for the first time in his career.
Back-to-Back Championships
Kobe Bryant leads the Lakers to gain two more NBA titles back to back.
Retirement
Kobe Bryant retires from professional basketball after playing 20 seasons with the Lakers.
Kobe and Gianna Bryant's Passing
Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died in a tragic helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on January 26.
Ideas to Celebrate Kobe Bryant Day
Kobe-themed Shoot-out
Gather your friends for a game of basketball. Try to embody Kobe's skill, determination, and love for the game as you play. Have a prize for the winner, such as a Bryant jersey or an replica of one of his five championship rings.
Watch Kobe's Greatest Games
Reflect on the greatness of Bryant’s career by watching recordings of his best performances. Spending the day watching these classics would be a great way to pay tribute to Bryant’s talent.
Buy Kobe's Merchandise
Buy Kobe's merchandise and be part of his legacy. His jerseys, shoes, and other memorabilia are a reminder of his exceptional talent and impact.
Charitable Donations
To honor Kobe's contributions to his community, you might consider making a donation in his name to a charity that aligns with his values and causes he was passionate about, such as youth sports programs or educational initiatives.
Social Media Tribute
Share your favorite Kobe's moments, quotes, or personal stories on social media using the hashtag #KobeBryantDay. This helps keep his memory alive and can lead to meaningful conversations with other fans.
8 Interesting Facts About Kobe Bryant
Youngest Player in History
Kobe Bryant was the youngest player in NBA history at that time, debuting in 1996 at the age of 18 years, 72 days. He held this record for several years.
Oscar Winner
After retiring from basketball in 2016, Kobe won an Academy Award in 2018 for the animated short film 'Dear Basketball.' The film was based on a letter he wrote announcing his retirement.
Basketball Prodigy
Bryant was named after a type of steak. His parents saw 'Kobe' steak on a restaurant menu before he was born and liked the name.
Polyglot
Kobe Bryant could speak fluent Italian and Spanish besides English. He had learned the languages during his childhood in Italy.
81 Point Game
Bryant scored 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors in 2006, the second-highest in NBA history, just a few points shy of Wilt Chamberlain's record of 100.
Loyal Laker
Throughout his 20-year career, Kobe Bryant only played for the Los Angeles Lakers. This makes him one of the few NBA players to spend their entire career with a single team.
Philanthropist
Kobe and his wife, Vanessa, were known for their philanthropy. They founded the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation which is dedicated to improving the lives of youth and families in need.
Statue in China
Kobe Bryant was so popular in China that he has a dedicated statue in Guangzhou. This statue was erected even before the Lakers put one up at the Staples Center.
Kobe Bryant Day FAQs
Next Kobe Bryant Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | August 24th | Thursday |
| 2024 | August 24th | Saturday |
| 2025 | August 24th | Sunday |
| 2026 | August 24th | Monday |
| 2027 | August 24th | Tuesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every August 24th | |
Kobe Bryant Day Word Search
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