The NBA world continues to mourn the tragic death of Kobe Bryant. When Sunday’s game between the Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Clippers tipped off, both teams found a way to honor Bryant’s legacy.
The Clippers won the tip-off and crossed half court before guard Landry Shamet simply dribbled the clock out until drawing a 24-second violation. Once the Clippers honored Bryant’s No. 24, Orlando inbounded the ball and drew an eight-second violation.
The Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs paid homage to Bryant with similar gestures on Sunday. It was a difficult moment for everyone in the stadium, especially Spurs guard DeMar DeRozan. The 30-year-old grew up idolizing Bryant while growing up in Los Angeles and modeled his game after the NBA legend.
More tributes continue to pour in from across the NBA. There will certainly be similar gestures like this to honor Bryant. The Clippers will return to the Staples Center on Tuesday to face the Lakers, in what is certain to be a very emotional game.