Kobe Bryant’s Legacy Endures Five Years After His Tragic Passing

MANILA — Five years have passed since the world lost basketball legend Kobe Bryant in a tragic helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. The untimely loss of Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others shocked the world and left a lasting impact on the global basketball community.

However, Bryant’s remarkable legacy—highlighted by five NBA championships, 33,643 career points, two Finals MVPs, 2008 MVP, 12 NBA All-Defensive Team honors, two Olympic gold medals, and his Basketball Hall of Fame induction—remains a guiding force for athletes, fans, and communities around the globe.

Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kyle Kuzma, who built a relationship with Bryant early in his career, reflected on the lasting influence Kobe had on him. “It means the world, it means everything. I was very blessed and fortunate to have had the chance to connect with him,” Kuzma said during his 2024 visit to the Philippines.

Despite entering the NBA after Kobe’s retirement, Kuzma often sought advice from Bryant on basketball, life, business, and relationships. “His guidance helped me a lot. Coming into the NBA at 21 and having someone like that as a mentor shaped who I am today. My goal now is to make others better,” Kuzma shared. “The true sign of greatness is bringing others along with you.”

Pau Gasol, another former Lakers star and close friend of Kobe, also continues to carry forward Bryant’s values. Gasol, who played alongside Kobe during the Lakers’ championship runs, has been inspired to promote women’s sports, especially women’s basketball, in Kobe’s memory. “Kobe was all about giving women the same opportunities he had. His efforts, especially with Gianna, inspired me to continue supporting women’s sports and creating growth in that area,” Gasol said.

Before his death, Bryant made a significant impact on women’s basketball, mentoring WNBA stars such as Diana Taurasi and Sabrina Ionescu. He coached Gianna’s basketball team, supporting girls’ opportunities in the sport, and Gasol is dedicated to continuing that work. “I want to see more girls playing basketball and pursuing their dreams, just as Kobe wanted for Gianna,” Gasol explained.

Kobe’s legacy also resonates in the Philippines, where present Lakers star Austin Reaves has embraced the responsibility of honoring Kobe’s influence. “Kobe is my favorite player, and playing for the same team he did is an honor,” said Reaves during his 2024 visit. “The love for basketball in the Philippines is something special. The knowledge and passion here are incredible.”

Reaves, who has become a fan-favorite both in Los Angeles and in the Philippines, sees his role as more than just representing the Lakers—he wants to inspire the next generation of Filipino players. “Follow your dreams. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something. If you don’t pursue it, you’ll regret it,” Reaves urged.

Kobe Bryant’s enduring legacy continues to inspire athletes, promote inclusivity, and encourage youth to pursue their dreams, both on and off the basketball court. As his story lives on, it reminds us all that while stars and heroes may come and go, legends like Kobe Bryant remain forever etched in history.