hinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard.
Bryant, who had that extra swagger in his gait as a result of collecting five NBA titles and worldwide cult worship, trumpeted through the theater amid deafening roars from Los Angeles Lakers faithful before the likes of actor-director Robert Townsend, TV personality Arsenio Hall and many of the Lakers family. Comedians Jimmy Kimmel and George Lopez blew up the spot prior to Bryant’s appearance with liver-quivering jokes.
“The Grauman Chinese Theatre is usually reserved for actors. Kobe hasn’t acted since he pretended he was going to pass the ball to Luke Walton,” Kimmel quipped.
Bryant said the possibility was never really something he thought much about.
“It’s not something I’ve ever dreamed about or thought about,” Bryant said. “It’s a great honor. To be next to some of the people I’m going to be next to is pretty cool.”
Lakers legendary coach Phil Jackson, general manager Mitch Kupchak and VP Jeanie Buss were also on hand for the momentous occasion.
After accepting the award, Bryant ceremoniously placed his bare hands in concrete, printed his name in the gook, then placed both shoes in the cement for posterity. –terry shropshire
