The sports world came together on Monday in Los Angeles to honor the life and legacy of Kobe Bryant. As many of the greatest athletes from throughout the history of professional sports paid tribute to Kobe and his legacy at the Staples Center, Michael Jordan delivered a speech that will never be forgotten.
Jordan walked up to the stage and showed the level of greatness that the sports world hasn’t seen since he was on the court and winning championships. The NBA legend shared how his respect for Kobe’s game turned into a relationship that made the two like family. While so many liked talking about the two as players, Jordan just enjoyed talking about Kobe.
This tribute by MJ to Kobe is moving pic.twitter.com/qMvUDlSv6U
— Hoops Videos™ (@HoopsVids) February 24, 2020
While Jordan’s legacy and career served as motivation for Kobe to become the best player possible, it was Kobe’s presence that Jordan said made him want to become the best big brother he could be.
“As I got to know him, I wanted to be the best big brother that I could be.”
— NBA TV (@NBATV) February 24, 2020
Michael Jordan on Kobe Bryant. pic.twitter.com/dTSp7VDosP
As Jordan fought back the tears, with everyone watching and listening doing the same, he captured everything that Kobe was about on the court and off. Just as everyone was on the brink of breaking down and losing it emotionally, Jordan brought everyone back to laughter by bringing up his crying meme with the perfect line.
"Now he's got me — I'll have to look at another crying meme for the next—" – MJ pic.twitter.com/BjBXOx8k6D
— SNY (@SNYtv) February 24, 2020
In a single speech in Kobe’s honor, Jordan captured everything that the Los Angeles Lakers legend meant to the world. He was one of the fiercest competitors in life, but he also knew how to bring a smile to the faces of those around him. As the sports world listened to Jordan’s speech, they all appreciated the moment no one will ever forget.
Michael Jordan, wow.
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) February 24, 2020
needed dat MJ
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) February 24, 2020
mj got me so emotional right now
— Alexis Morgan (@alexismorgan) February 24, 2020
MJ did his thing ❤️
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) February 24, 2020
The genuine love that Michael Jordan had for Kobe Bryant was so palpable in that speech. What a stirring tribute — from one legend to another.
— Coley Harvey (@ColeyHarvey) February 24, 2020
MJ with his best assist.
— Kazeem Famuyide (@Kazeem) February 24, 2020
Michael Jordan really is as good at crying as he was at basketball. Iconic.
— Molly Knight (@molly_knight) February 24, 2020
I've never seen Jordan be so real. This is amazing.
— Ann Killion (@annkillion) February 24, 2020
Kobe has brought out the best version of Michael Jordan we have seen since he wore a Bulls jersey.
— alex medina (@mrmedina) February 24, 2020
"When Kobe Bryant died, a piece of me died. … Rest in peace little brother." – Michael Jordan before receiving a standing ovation from the Staples Center crowd at the #KobeFarewell memorial.
— James H. Williams (@JHWreporter) February 24, 2020
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