VIDEO: Kawhi Leonard Delivers Emotional Postgame Speech Dedicating Performance to Kobe Bryant
By Scott Rogust
The basketball world spent all of Sunday's ill-timed action in mourning over the death of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. While many players and coaches were visibly upset, the NBA was still open for business. On Sunday evening, the Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Orlando Magic 112-97, with star Kawhi Leonard having a 31-point, 14-rebound, seven-assist game. After the game, an emotional Leonard spoke on the death of Bryant, and dedicated his performance to the Los Angeles icon.
Perfectly said by Leonard, who was obviously distraught over The Mamba's passing. Bryant prided himself on playing every game and outworking everyone else on the court.
In response, Kawhi channeled his inner "Mamba" and balled out at the expense of the Magic. In fact, it was his eighth straight 30-point game this season.
Any Los Angeles basketball player has the unenviable task of living up to the expectations of Bryant. Leonard is going to try his best, and he left a good impression.