02/25/2020
Dear Kobe
Ever since I was 7 seven years old, I was your biggest fan. Whenever my friends or adversaries would debate about the greatest I would stand up quick and speak your name. As if I knew you, as if you knew me. And I felt like I knew you even though you didn’t know me. Your passion for excellence, is what connected us. I wanted to be the best in every sport i played in, because of the happiness i saw it brought you to go through the JOURNEY. As I grew older and sports had taken it toll on me physically and mentally I decided to step away from sports and focus on the next stage which was being a father and providing. As I went through my daily routine of work and everyday life I would watch videos of your interviews on how you would apply your athletic competitive nature into those everyday non-sport routines and with that approach, you succeeded. Mamba Mentality. Now as a young girl's dad, I am striving to teach my daughter excellence and greatness through sports, dance, cooking, chores and whatever it may be. And that is largely because of you and how you motivated me to be a better father, husband, and coach.
It’s now about the next generation and how we can teach them about work ethic and what it can do for them. I will forever have be grateful for that knowledge. And now that you're gone, I look back and the young boy who watched 24/8 play through October into May. He hurts he’s crying. And as a father seeing Gigi and what she was becoming, as father that hurts, I’m crying. But I know we got stay strong and strive for greatness. Goodbye GOAT! Even though you are not here, your presence is still felt worldwide. Thanks Kobe and go put on show for everyone in heaven with Gigi as your 1-2 punch!
See you soon GOAT!
@ 78Cryo