Kobe

I didn't see MJ play his whole career, but I saw Kobe Bryant play from start to finish he was my GOAT. I remember crying all those times the Lakers lost to the Spurs in the western conference finals and the Pistons in the NBA finals. Celebrated in 2009 and 2010 when he won back to back titles after they said it was over. All the way up to Achilles tear, the last game and the jersey retirement (the only player to have both number 8 and 24 retired) that's how great he was. I only own 2 NBA jersey's in my life Vince Carter and his # 8 jersey, that was my guy! Kobe was everything I want to be personified, I modeled my life after Kobe's, somebody who had a will and determination to not only win but be the best by any means. I still can't wrap my mind around this loss, it's making me sick to my stomach. I just wanted to pay homage to you because even tho we never met in person, you molded and influenced my life so much, I just want to say Thank You. Condolences to Vanessa and the whole Bryant family and the families of the people that perished in the tragedy.

This is was a special feature written by Isaiah Rhodes (@Askisaiah) for The Vibe Issue.