In the wake of the helicopter crash that tragically claimed the lives of NBA icon Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and 7 others, the outpouring of condolences and support have been constant. Last night, in what was the Los Angeles Lakers' first game in the Staples Center since Bryant's death, Usher, Wiz Khalifa, Boyz II Men, and Lebron Jame with a moving speech, all paid tribute to the basketball icon in a touching pre-game ceremony.
Usher performed a moving rendition of "Amazing Grace" while a video of mourning fans and fellow athletes accompanied him, followed up by another tribute video full of Bryant's career highlights.
Boyz II Men, who joined Alicia Keys for an impromptu tribute to Bryant at this year's Grammy Awards, sang the national anthem donning shirts emblazoned with 8 and 24—the two numbers Bryant wore during his 20-year career. These same shirts were also made available to fans in attendance that night, with each side of the venue getting shirts with either number.
By the game's half-time show, Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth took to center court to perform “See You Again," their 2015 single originally commemorating the death of actor Paul Walker. "To the late Kobe Bryant," Khalifa said to the crowd during the performance. "His legacy is gonna be remembered. We love you, Kobe.”
Watch the performances above and below.
