An act of vandalism went viral this week after a social media post revealed the ruined state of one of the first murals of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna. Fans were devastated to discover the ruined artwork in downtown Los Angeles, but fans have been raising money to restore it, and Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has already made a significant contribution.
“I am reaching out to the community to help restore the beautiful Kobe & Gigi mural that has brought inspiration and unity to so many,” wrote Sloe Motions in a statement. “This mural was a special collaboration with NFL for Superbowl LVI. Over time, the mural has faced wear and tear, and I am eager to bring it back to its original glory. Your generous donations will go directly towards the materials needed for the restoration process, including high-quality paints, sealants, and other essential supplies.”
Unfortunately one of the first Kobe and Gigi Bryant murals has been vandalized in Downtown Los Angeles… pic.twitter.com/uHhgEcmHkP
— Kobe & Gianna Bryant Murals (@kobemurals) April 28, 2025
The community organized a GoFundMe for the restoration project, with the goal of raising $5,000. Only 21 people donated before Luka Doncic paid the whole amount in full with one large payment. In a recent chat with the media, Luka explained what drove him to act and give back to a community he’s known for only a few short months.
“Like I always say, my foundation gives back to organizations in the community,” said Doncic, via Daniel Starkland. “It’s always important to give back to the community that gave me so much. So just wanted to give back.”
Luka is still relatively new to life as a Laker, but it doesn’t take long to realize how important Kobe Bryant was to the city and the entire Lakers fandom. In 20 years with the Lakers, Bryant secured his legacy as one of the All-Time greats with five championships, 18 All-Star appearances, and an MVP in 2008. In 1,366 games with the Lakers, he averaged 25.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game on 35.8% shooting.
Besides his amazing play on the court, Bryant was revered for his championship mentality, which always ensured he was the hardest worker on the team. Kobe’s competitive spirit and dedication to the craft earned him millions of fans around the world, and he was beloved by Lakers Nation.
Sadly, Bryant and his middle daughter, Gianna, passed away in a tragic helicopter crash in 2020 that claimed the lives of nine people. The group was headed to a basketball game at the Mamba Sports Academy before low visibility caused an accident that led to disaster on a Southern California hillside.
Ever since that tragic day, fans and LA citizens have come together to keep Bryant’s legacy alive through stories, on-court success, and countless pieces of artwork plastered all over the city. While not everyone sees value in the murals, Lakers fans (with Luka’s help) are doing their part to make sure that Bryant’s murals (and his memory) are never washed away.
Besides his donation, the biggest thing that Doncic can do is do what Kobe would have wanted: win at the highest levels of play. After a Finals run last year, Doncic showed he can get far into the playoffs, but with the Lakers down 3-1 this year, the odds are stacked against him to go all the way.
Whether it’s this year or another year after, the Lakers are bound to make another run, and Luka is doing his part both on and off the court to support the city and its fans however he can.
