The Staples Center will host a public memorial on February 24 to honor Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna Bryant, and those lost in last month’s helicopter crash.
The date for the memorial is significant as it reflects the basketball jersey numbers worn by Kobe (No. 24) and Gianna (No. 2).
The city of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the LA Clippers, who have a game that night, are working together on planning and coordination for the memorial.
Bryant was on his way to a basketball game with his daughter on January 26, when the helicopter they were traveling in crashed.
Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, issued a statement shortly after Kobe and Gianna’s passing, writing, “My girls and I want to thank the millions of people who’ve shown support and love during this horrific time. Thank you for all the prayers. We definitely need them. We are completely devastated by the sudden loss of my adoring husband, Kobe — the amazing father of our children; and my beautiful, sweet Gianna — a loving, thoughtful, and wonderful daughter, and amazing sister to Natalia, Bianka, and Capri. There aren’t enough words to describe our pain right now.”
To honor the memory of those lost, the family has asked that donations be sent to the Mamba On Three Fund. You can also donate to the Mamba Sports Foundation in honor of Kobe and Gianna’s work in youth sports.