It was early this year that the entire NBA and the broader world learned about the tragic passing of all-time great Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant.
When news came pouring in on that fateful January Sunday that Mr. Bryant had perished in a helicoptor accident, those who grew up watching Kobe felt as if it was almost surreal.
Now, several months later, tributes continue from some of the NBA’s biggest stars. That includes one of the top guards in the Association.
Damian Lillard drops amazing Kobe Bryant tribute track
“Dame D.O.L.L.A.,” as he’s known in the hip-hop community, worked with Snoop Dogg and Derrick Milano in the collaboration. A native of Oakland in Northern California, the 30-year-old Lillard grew up at a time when Kobe was dominating the NBA’s stage. It showed in the lyrics.
“Rest In Peace to the Mamba and Baby Gigi, Lillard rapped. “No. 8 was crazy. But, 24 was scary. Respect his name or else he might show up as Bloody Mary. Won’t forget the things he mentioned — how to get a Larry. Whatever necessary, he tried to help prepare me.”
The Blazers star worked with NBA 2K21 to help create the song for the game’s soundtrack. As the cover athlete for NBA 2K21, Lillard wanted to use his sway to help pay homage to Bryant.
This is not a surprise. Lillard was seen wearing a Kobe jersey after a playoff game against the star’s former Lakers team last month. He’s long been a fan of the multi-time NBA champ.
That came out in droves in this track.