After Kobe and Gigi Bryant died in a helicopter crash in January 2020, hundreds of murals and public art projects honouring them sprung up around Southern California.
Luka Doncic has stepped up to pay the entire expected cost of restoring a vandalised mural depicting Kobe and Gigi Bryant in downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ new guard made a USD 5,000 donation Tuesday to cover the entire goal of a GoFundMe page created by artist Louie Palsino. He wants to restore the mural, titled “Mambas Forever,” at 14th and Main streets.
“It was always important to give back to the community,” Doncic said after practice at the Lakers’ training complex. “They gave me so much, so I just want to give back.”
The Slovenian superstar joined the Lakers less than three months ago in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks. He teamed with LeBron James to lead the Lakers to the Pacific Division title and the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs, but Los Angeles is on the brink of elimination on Wednesday night when the Minnesota Timberwolves visits for Game 5 with a 3-1 series lead.
Bryant spent his entire 20-year career with the Lakers, winning five championships and becoming the top scorer in franchise history. After Kobe and Gigi Bryant died in a helicopter crash in January 2020, hundreds of murals and public art projects honouring them sprung up around Southern California.
Fans Laughing at Lakers Over Unexpected Move Before Game 5
L.A. suffered a deflating 116-113 loss in Game 4 on Sunday, which put them in a deep 3-1 hole.
On Tuesday, ahead of Wednesday’s do-or-die Game 5 clash at Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers surprised several fans by listing veteran big man Maxi Kleber, who has yet to make his Lakers debut since he was acquired mid-season from the Dallas Mavericks, as questionable to play on the official injury report.
While some supporters were excited by the news, others laughed at the Lakers for what they believe is a sign of desperation.
“‘Maxi Kleber’ ain’t saving yall,” a post on X read.
“I had no idea he even played for the lakers hahah,” said another.
“😂😂😂” commented a reader.
“You know ur going out sad when people getting hype for Maxi Kleber😂” a reaction read.
“From ‘we really winning a chip this year’ to being excited over maxi kleber😂😂😂” mocked another.
“all for this to lose tomorrow lool🤣🤣😂😂 wolves in 5,” predicted a user.
Kleber, 33, has been recovering from a right foot injury after undergoing surgery on Jan. 30. The 6-foot-10 forward/center was able to return to practice on April 15, but there have been no significant updates on his status until Tuesday night.
Kleber was part of the Luka Doncic blockbuster deal with the Mavs. He played in 34 games for Dallas this season before his foot injury, averaging 3.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 18.7 minutes off the bench.
Whether or not he will actually suit up for the Lakers on Thursday—and if he will be a factor at all—remains to be seen.