Orange County declares 8/24 Kobe Bryant Day

Sydney Kalich

4 years ago

FILE - In this June 7, 2009, file photo, Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) points to a player behind him after making a basket in the closing seconds against the Orlando Magic in Game 2 of the NBA basketball finals in Los Angeles. Federal investigators said Wednesday, June 17, 2020, that the pilot of the helicopter that crashed in thick fog, killing Kobe Bryant and seven other passengers, reported he was climbing when he actually was descending. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (News Nation) — Orange County supervisors declared Aug. 24 Kobe Bryant Day, in honor of the late Lakers legend and former Orange County resident.

The day was chosen for the two jersey numbers, 8 and 24, the NBA superstar wore during his 20-year career.

“Mr. Bryant was a treasured member of the Orange County community and loved by his neighbors for his kindness to strangers and all his fans as well as his charitable efforts to encourage youth to pursue their athletic aspirations,” said Orange County chairwoman Michelle Steel.

Aug. 24 is also is the day after Bryant’s birthday. He would have been 42 this year.

Bryant was killed with eight others, including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, when a helicopter crashed and caught fire on a hillside outside of Los Angeles Jan. 26 2020.