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Rare Pre-draft Footage Of Kobe Bryant Is Going Viral On The Anniversary Of His Death

Today, January 26, 20201, marks the one year anniversary of the tragic helicopter crash that took the lives of Kobe and Gianna Bryant. I still remember exactly where I was and what I was doing on that day when I saw the news come across the tv. It was a tragic and unbelievable day. It’s hard to believe it was already a year ago today. However, today is a day of remembrance. Kobe Bryant is one of the best to ever play the game and his memory will be eternal. In light of today, some rare pre-draft footage of him has circulated the internet.


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Kobe Bryant working out for the Clippers is an insane sight to see. It just doesn’t feel right not seeing him in the purple and gold that he wore for his entire career that saw three decades. Kobe Bryant was the Lakers for so long. It’s hard to imagine him as anything else. Except for a father.

Many have said that being a father brought out the best in Kobe Bryant. His former teammate, Pau Gasol, was so inspired by Kobe as a girl dad he decided to name his daughter after Kobe Bryant’s daughter, Gianna. Kobe’s wife Vanessa asked that footage of the crash not be shared today on the anniversary of his death. I hope that her wishes are respected, however, we will all remember that day today and forevermore.

Kobe Bryant’s draft was full of an insane amount of talent. So much so that he went 13th overall. It is crazy that this footage is circulating now for what feels like the first time. Nevertheless, I am glad it was saved. I’m sure there will be plenty of Kobe memories and stories today, but somehow this one stuck out. And I am happy it did. This footage is Kobe Bryant before he was KOBE Bryant. Among many other things, today I remember Kobe Bryant as that 17-year-old kid who once worked out for the Clippers.

RIP Mamba. You will never be forgotten.


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