VIDEO: Kawhi Leonard Delivers Emotional Postgame Speech Dedicating Performance to Kobe Bryant
By Scott Rogust
![Kawhi Leonard delivered an emotional postgame interview, where he dedicated his game to Kobe Bryant. Kawhi Leonard delivered an emotional postgame interview, where he dedicated his game to Kobe Bryant.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/Screen-Shot-2020-01-26-at-101332-PM-f6f04e9f87eb37eb22deb3596a417dd9.jpg)
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.
Kawhi played for Kobe today: “Knowing him personally, I know he’d want me to come out here and try to ball and still just be great ... Words can't explain his impact he had on this floor." pic.twitter.com/NAks6AMe29
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 27, 2020
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.
Kawhi Leonard tonight:
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) January 27, 2020
31 PTS
14 REB
7 AST
55% FG
50% 3FG
8th straight 30-point game
112-97 W
One of the many students of Kobe Bryant. pic.twitter.com/E7Wy1zaFLF
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.