Snoop Dogg, an American rapper paid a moving tribute to the late Kobe Bryant during the 2020 ESPY Awards on Sunday night, almost five months after his shocking death in a helicopter crash.
During the first-ever virtual ESPY awards ceremony — held, as such, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic — Snoop Dogg premiered a very special tribute to the late athlete.
Snoop Dogg rapped as video of the athlete, as well as footage of the many stunning murals that have popped up in tribute to Kobe, played.
The rapper took viewers through Kobe’s career highlights with his words, saying, “All grit no smile … Let’s do it mamba style.”
Later, Snoop Dogg rapped, “Back-to-back-to-back champion. Gunnin’ for the pantheon. The L.A. X-factor.”
“A friend and leader, understandably. And you did it candidly,” rapped Snoop Dogg of the late NBA star. “Your reign in the city remains … greatness in your name.”
Kobe, 41, and daughter Gianna, 13, were killed in the January 26 helicopter crash in California, along with seven others.
On Sunday, Kobe‘s wife and Gianna‘s mother, Vanessa Bryant, 38, paid tribute to the NBA icon with a Father’s Day message on Instagram.
“Happy Father’s Day to the BEST daddy in the world. We miss you so much. We love you forever and always. Love, Nani, Gigi, BB, Koko and VB ❤️😘@KobeBryant #BestoftheBest #GirlDad,” wrote Vanessa, who is also mom to Natalia, 17, Bianka, 3, and Capri, who turned 1 on Saturday.
