Kobe Bryant leads moving Lakers tribute to Jerry Buss
Lakers guard Kobe Bryant points up to the owner's box during a tribute Wednesday to Jerry Buss. (Photo: Gary A. Vasquez, USA TODAY Sports)
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Los Angeles Lakers
Kobe Bryant
Jerry Buss
Kobe Bryant took the microphone. Who else could?
The Los Angeles Lakers, their fans, their community, are in mourning, and the leader stepped up to address the crowd.
Bryant delivered a minute-long speech Wednesday about Jerry Buss, the longtime Lakers owner who died Monday. He delivered the speech before the Lakers played the Boston Celtics, a perfect moment in a rivalry Buss helped build.
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"On Monday we lost what we all know to be the greatest owner in sports, ever," Bryant said. "He was a brilliant, incredible owner, but he was even a better person with a great heart. His vision transcended the game, and we are all spoiled by his vision and by his drive to win year after year after year.
"And through our years being here at Staples Center, the one thing we could always count on was the great Jerry Buss overlooking his franchise from his box. I'd like to ask all of you to please join us in a moment of silence to honor the great Dr. Jerry Buss."
