Kobe Bryant may have become an NBA icon while playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, but he was born all the way over in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Because of that, he is a legend in both LA and Philadelphia.
According to Ari Meirov, returning Philadelphia Eagles star Chauncey Gardner-Johnson recently revealed that he will be wearing the No. 8 jersey this season in honor of Bryant.
New #Eagles S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson said he’ll wear No. 8 in honor of the late Kobe Bryant. pic.twitter.com/h6grv9FUBd
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 15, 2024
During a press conference, Gardner-Johnson told the press that he was planning to go into “Kobe Mode” this season, so the number fits him.
He spent some time away from the Eagles but now he is bringing back his attitude, personality, and self-belief for the new season.
Self-belief is something that Bryant had a lot of too.
Today, people still talk about his “Mamba Mentality,” which was his dogged drive to play hard, win, and always give more than 100% during each and every game.
It’s a mindset that has transcended the Lakers and even the rest of the NBA.
There are many professional athletes and people in other industries who cite Bryant as an inspiration and aspire to work like him, no matter what they are doing.
Bryant’s legacy lives on, remaining strong in Los Angeles while also inspiring others in Pennsylvania.
After being born in Philadelphia, the future Hall of Famer played high school basketball at Lower Merion before his time in the NBA.
All these years later, he is still celebrated as one of the best athletes to come out of the state.
But Gardner-Johnson isn’t just wearing No. 8 because Bryant hailed from Pennsylvania.
Instead, it’s Bryant’s talent and dedication to his craft that has led the NFL star to make this choice.
The post New Eagles Player Plans To Honor Kobe Bryant With Notable Gesture appeared first on The Cold Wire.