Tragic, heart-wrenching and untimely. These are the sentiments that come to mind when I look at my Instagram feed, filled with tributes to the late Kobe Bryant. For as long as I can remember, this great man was an inspiration to play basketball and for the years that I did, the only goal was to mimic him as closely as possible.

I remember watching his final game in 2016 and thinking, “Wow, 60 points. That’s more than many national-level teams can score here in full-time.” What made him great was his ability to persevere in the face of struggle. He taught me never to give up on the court, even when I was running on nothing and my lungs felt like they were on fire.

He also showed me the value in hard work. Kobe was a man who was first to arrive at the courts and last to leave, and I can safely say that putting that into practice in my own life was what got me results on the court.

Kobe Bryant will always have a place in my life, and even today as I no longer play the sport, his legacy will carry on, far beyond the court. As a gamer, the term ‘Kobe’ is one used for doing something extremely calculated and skilful, or lucky. I’m glad that he’s remembered that way as his influence transcends the sport of Basketball.

To Mr. Bryant, Thank you, for playing chess while the rest played checkers.

Ralph Rodrigues
By email