Nike and Mamba & MambaCita Sports Foundation (led by Kobe’s widow, Vanessa Bryant) hosted events honoring Kobe Bryant.
Some of the events included the Mamba League Invitational at LA Live, hosted by Nike, on August 23rd, Kobe’s birthday, and Saturday, August 24th (Kobe’s jersey numbers – 8/24). Young basketball players like LeBron James’ son, Bryce, participated. Some of the Junior Mambas players, coached by Kobe Bryant, participated. Vanessa Bryant gave out championship and MVP trophies to the winners.
On August 25th, the Los Angeles Dodgers honored Kobe. Bianka, 7, threw the first pitch to start the MLB team’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays with her mother, Vanessa, by her side.
Vanessa, her daughters Natalia, Bianka, and Capri donned matching Dodgers jerseys with No. 24 on the back.
That day, Dodgers Stadium had other memorial events for the late basketball sensation.
LA and Orange County do commemorate Kobe Bryant. Santa Monica’s Pacific Park Ferris wheel illuminates in purple and gold, featuring team colors and Bryant’s jersey numbers. The Orange County Clerk-Recorder’s Office opens on Kobe Bryant Day, giving out marriage licenses and holding ceremonies.