Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić has once again demonstrated his deep respect for basketball history and the city he now calls home. The Slovenian superstar donated $5,000 to fully fund the restoration of a vandalized mural honoring Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant in downtown Los Angeles.
The mural, located at 14th and Main Street, depicts Bryant tenderly kissing his daughter on the cheek while she holds a basketball. Created by artist Louie “Sloe” Motions, the artwork has been a cherished tribute to the late Lakers legend and his daughter, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020.
However, earlier this week, the mural was defaced with black and white paint, obscuring the heartfelt image that had become a symbol of remembrance for Lakers fans and the broader basketball community.
Upon learning about the vandalism, Dončić stepped up immediately. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to raise $5,000 for the restoration, and Dončić personally covered the entire amount, ensuring the mural could be restored without delay. His donation was confirmed by the Luka Dončić Foundation, which released a statement emphasizing his admiration for Bryant:
“Kobe is LA. He and Gigi mean so much to this city, to the Lakers organization, and to me personally. I’m happy to do anything to help make sure he and his daughter are honored.” — Luka Dončić
Dončić’s gesture is just the latest in his efforts to give back to the Los Angeles community. Since joining the Lakers, he has actively participated in charitable initiatives, including donating $500,000 to wildfire relief efforts earlier this year. His respect for Bryant is well-documented, as he has often spoken about the impact Kobe had on his career and the inspiration he drew from the late Hall of Famer.
