Los Angeles Lakers fans are reeling after a cherished mural honoring Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant was defaced with graffiti in downtown LA. Located at 14th and Main streets, the artwork, created by artist Louie “Sloe” Motions, depicted Kobe kissing Gigi on the forehead, a poignant tribute to the duo who perished in a January 2020 helicopter crash alongside seven others. The vandalism, discovered on April 29, left the mural covered in white and black spray paint, sparking outrage among fans.
The mural, titled “Mambas Forever,” was a collaboration with the NFL for Super Bowl LVI in 2022, symbolizing Kobe’s enduring legacy as a five-time NBA champion and Lakers icon. “This mural was a special collaboration,” the GoFundMe page for its restoration noted, highlighting its cultural significance.
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Fans took to X to express their grief, with one user lamenting, “The level of disrespect is unbelievable!” Another called it “heartbreaking,” emphasizing the mural’s role as a “symbol of love, loss, and legacy.”
In a heartwarming response, Lakers star Luka Doncic donated $5,000 to fully fund the GoFundMe campaign to restore the artwork, per the Los Angeles Times. “It was always important to give back to the community,” Doni said after practice, reflecting his commitment to LA since joining the Lakers in a 2025 trade from the Dallas Mavericks. Artist Sloe Motions, shocked by Doni’s gesture, told the Times, “He’s representing us the right way,” and plans to add protective paint to preserve the mural.
Vandalized mural sparks outrage, Doncic funds its revival
Kobe and Gigi’s memory looms large in LA, with over 600 murals worldwide, per the New York Times, many in Southern California. This particular piece, one of the first created after their passing, held special meaning. “Kobe is L.A.,” Doncic said, underscoring the city’s deep connection to the Black Mamba. The vandalism, caught in a feud between street artists according to one user on X, felt like a personal blow to fans.
As efforts to restore the mural gain traction, supported by donations from 2K Games and others, per the Los Angeles Times, the incident highlights Kobe’s lasting impact. Vanessa Bryant’s upcoming book, documenting over 100 murals of Kobe and Gigi, further cements their legacy, ensuring their memory endures despite this setback.
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