Dear Kobe,

Before writing this, I never put much thought into how big of an impact you’ve made on my life and how you’ve connected me with the people that I love the most.
But then memories began flashing through my mind rapidly. Memories of going to the 2001 championship parade with my uncle in the sports car that would later become mine. Memories of my little sister and I watching you hit game winners in our living room. Memories of getting to see you one last time at Staples Center with my girlfriend who became my wife. Memories of attending my first Lakers game with my best friend who years later became my best man.
Pickup basketball games. Lakers games and Wingstop. Watching your dvds, highlights, and interviews. Game after game, year after year, I knew I could count on you to show up and give me another reason to bond with the ones that I love.
You’re no longer here but your legacy lives on. I don’t really play pickup games anymore but I still yell “Kobe!” when I’m throwing away my daughters dirty diapers. yesterday as my son was throwing away his trash he yelled “Kobe!” And when my daughters old enough to speak, you already know what she’ll be saying... Rest In Peace. 24ever.

- Andrew