Yesterday, Filipinos woke up to a bad dream: Kobe Bryant is dead. Shock, grief, and disbelief struck the basketball nation, leaving millions of fans heartbroken.
Bryant’s love affair with the Philippines was made more apparent when major Philippine landmarks lit up in purple and yellow to honor the basketball legend.
Mall of Asia
Araneta Center
Eastwood City
Uptown Bonifacio
Ronac Art Center
SM North EDSA
Tenement, Taguig
Below is a special message Kobe dedicated to Filipinos when he retired.
“To the Philippines, thank you so much for the tremendous honor. Seeing my number retired is something that I would absolutely never forget. The love that you guys have shown me, the way that you guys have embraced me is something that I will always, always remember, so thank you so much for that.
“Secondly, I hope that you guys will remember to always demand more of yourself, to always push yourself beyond what your expectations are, and demand more, love the hate, Mamba Out. Peace.”