It’s #MambaDay and an era is coming to a close.
Legendary NBA star Kobe Bryant is at the end of a storied 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 37-year-old owner of five NBA Championship rings has earned accolades and respect from athletes spanning several generations and sports, along with tributes from those outside the competitive realm who have marvelled at the “Black Mamba”‘s talent, drive and achievements for two decades.
In this Nike video, Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Rafa Nadal join fellow Nike athletes in explaining why Kobe was such an amazing, but polarizing competitor.
Tennis stars also took to Twitter to weigh in on the unforgettable career of Bryant… and to show their support by donning custom-made shoes for the big occasion.
Honoring a legend #mambaday #justdoit @nikecourt pic.twitter.com/EmS4pp4yRb
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) April 13, 2016
Love him or hate him–you can't deny his fearless competitiveness. Proud to be apart of the @Nike fam #MambaDay pic.twitter.com/rbVumJIuT3
— Madison Keys (@Madison_Keys) April 13, 2016
Didn't realize I was such a big Kobe fan till today knowing this is it – the final game ever #MambaDay #24 #Respect
— Philip Bester (@Besterphilip) April 13, 2016
Can't wait to wear these babies #mambaday #justdoit pic.twitter.com/OITqpQjRER
— Genie Bouchard (@geniebouchard) April 12, 2016