A heartfelt tribute to Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna in downtown Los Angeles has been brought back to life, thanks to a generous donation from Luka Doncic.
The mural, titled “Mambas Forever,” was recently defaced, prompting an outpouring of support from the community and ultimately leading Doni to fully fund its restoration.
Painted on a building at 1361 Main Street, the mural by artist Louie Palsino, known professionally as Sloe Motions, was one of the earliest street art tributes created after the tragic helicopter crash in January 2020.
The image depicts Kobe cradling a young Gianna – a poignant symbol of the bond they shared and the legacy they left behind.
Late in April, the mural was found vandalized with graffiti and white paint, sparking widespread outrage and sadness.
The damage was described by the nonprofit KobeMural, which tracks Bryant-inspired street art globally, as an attack on one of the most cherished tributes in the city.
Doncic steps up to restore a symbol of legacy
In response, Palsino launched a campaign to raise funds for the mural’s repair. But before fans could mobilize, Doncic quietly covered the full cost.
The former Dallas Mavericks star donated $5,000 through the Luka Doncic Foundation, his nonprofit focused on youth development and cultural unity through sport.
“Kobe is L.A. He and Gigi mean so much to this city, to the Lakers organization, and to me personally,” Doncic said in a statement shared with NBC News. “I’m honored to help ensure they’re remembered in a way that reflects their lasting impact.”
The act of kindness resonated deeply with fans. KobeMural.com currently lists 653 murals worldwide dedicated to Kobe and Gianna, with more than 330 located in Southern California alone.
Yet this particular artwork has become a fixture in the local community, admired for both its visual power and emotional weight.
Palsino, with Doncic‘s support, began the restoration process immediately. On Friday, KobeMural announced via Instagram that the mural had been fully restored.
“The Kobe and Gigi Bryant mural in Downtown Los Angeles has been restored,” the group posted, adding a thank you to Doncic and all involved.
A reminder of the Mamba legacy and community strength
Doncic‘s donation not only brought the mural back to life but also highlighted the enduring reach of Kobe’s influence – across teams, generations, and even continents.
As one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, Doncic has often spoken about Kobe’s impact on his career. Now, he’s paying it forward, helping ensure that the Bryant legacy continues to inspire future athletes and fans.
The mural, once again intact, serves as a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond between sport and community, and how acts of respect and restoration can echo far beyond the court.
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