Kobe Bryant just got elected to the NBA Hall of Fame and it should be a surprise to nobody. In 20 NBA seasons, he averaged 25 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game on 44% shooting. He was also an 18x All-Star, 5x Champion, and 2x FInals MVP.
Unfortunately, Kobe is unable to speak on his entry in the Hall of Fame as a result of his tragic death in late January. He and his daughter, Gianna, were among nine victims who lost their lives in a fatal helicopter crash.
But in an interview ESPN on Saturday, the very emotional Vanessa (wife of Kobe) was able to respond to her late husband’s milestone.
“It’s an incredible accomplishment and honor,” Vanessa Bryant said. “And we’re extremely proud of him. Obviously, we wish that he was here with us to celebrate.”
“Every accomplishment he had as an athlete was a stepping stone to be here,” she said. “So we’re incredibly proud of him. And there’s some solace knowing that he was probably going to be part of the 2020 Hall of Fame class.”
"We're incredibly proud of him."
Vanessa and Natalia Bryant joined Rece Davis after Kobe's induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/HX31pyvgPe
— ESPN (@espn) April 4, 2020
Kobe was among a few stars to get inducted, including Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett — both players who Bryant highly respected. And, honestly, his status as a global icon made him an instant lock to get in.
Still, it’s awesome to hear (officially) that Kobe will finally get his place in the Hall of Fame and even better to hear that his family is still supporting him and his accomplishments.
It may be months since his death, but him not being here hasn’t gotten much easier for anyone. We can’t imagine how Vanessa and the rest of the Bryant family have coped with it all. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they continue to grieve the loss of a legend, father, and husband.
