Jimmy Butler showed that he really really appreciated playing with Pau Gasol and attended the Spanish’s big man jersey retirement ceremony on Tuesday night.
Butler didn’t hesitate and flew all the way from Miami to Los Angeles to meet his former teammate.
This is already an incredible gesture from the former Chicago Bulls player, but what makes it even more impressive is the fact that Jimmy left Miami and went to Los Angeles in the middle of two Miami Heat’s home games.
As soon as they saw each other, Butler and Gasol embraced in a big hug. They played together from 2014 and 2016, and during those years, Butler rose to stardom while Gasol helped him reach the next level and become a star of this league.
They couldn’t win in the Windy City, but Pau did retire with the two titles he won with Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles, while Butler is still trying to put his hands on the Larry O’Brien trophy.
Gasol had a great night, having his No. 16 jersey retired and placed right beside Kobe Bryant’s. This was such a great honor, and Pau treasures it with the utmost love and respect.
Pau Gasol Got Emotional While Talking About Kobe Bryant
When it comes to Kobe Bryant, Gasol doesn’t mince words, and during his jersey retirement ceremony, he dedicated some words to his former teammate and friend, revealing how it felt not having Bryant in attendance for this event.
“I can’t go long without talking about the person and the face I don’t see. The brother that elevated me, inspired me, and challenged me to be a better player and to be a better man overall. I miss him. I miss him so much like many of us do, I love him. I wish he was here with Gigi, I really do. But I think he’d be proud and he was looking forward to this moment. I love you, brother.”
Ever since that dark January 26 of 2020, things haven’t been the same for anybody around the NBA. Those who played with and against Kobe really appreciated him, and Gasol wasn’t an exception. They created a terrific duo in Los Angeles, winning two championships in three trips to the NBA Finals.
They were one of the most memorable tandems in Lakers history, and now Pau has been immortalized for his huge contributions to the Purple and Gold.
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