Former Lakers player Matt Barnes recently shared an emotional tribute to Kobe Bryant, revealing a heartfelt gesture the NBA legend made just days before his death. Barnes, a close friend and teammate of Kobe, recounted how the basketball icon sent brand new sneakers to Barnes‘ twins and their entire team, highlighting Kobe’s ongoing support and generosity.

Barnes and Bryant first developed a friendship during their time together on the Lakers, but their bond grew deeper after retirement. With Kobe coaching his daughter Gianna and Barnes coaching his twins, Carter and Isaiah, the two former teammates found themselves reconnecting on the basketball court. “We would see each other a little bit more because he was coaching Gigi and I was coaching the twins,” Barnes shared. This frequent interaction helped to rekindle their friendship and establish a meaningful connection between Kobe and Barnes‘ children.

Uncle Kobe and mentorship

To Barnes‘ twins, Kobe wasn’t just a legendary athlete-he was “Uncle Kobe.” Barnes revealed that Kobe became a mentor to his kids, offering them personal training sessions and advice that went beyond basketball. In one special instance, Barnes took his sons to a surprise birthday training session with Bryant. This session, where Kobe taught the boys some of his signature moves, sparked a love for the sport in them. “I think that lit the fire,” said Barnes, noting the profound impact Kobe had on their development.

A gesture of generosity in the final days

The highlight of Barnes‘ tribute was the story of Kobe’s last gift to his children. Just a few days before his tragic helicopter crash, Kobe sent a box of his signature shoes to Barnes‘ twins and their entire basketball team. “It was the week of his passing,” Barnes recalled, “and he sent the shoes on Monday. They had just gotten fresh Kobes.” This gesture has taken on even greater significance, standing as a symbol of Kobe’s generosity, commitment to the game, and his role as a mentor to young athletes.

Honoring Kobe’s legacy

Barnes‘ twins have carried Kobe’s teachings forward, integrating his advice and inspiration into their own basketball journey. Playing at Crespi Carmelite High School, they secured a championship title earlier this year, a triumph they attribute partly to the lessons and motivation received from Kobe. Their Instagram account, ‘thebarnesboys,’ even features a profile picture of Kobe and Gianna as a tribute to the late legend.

Kobe’s impact lives on

As Barnes concluded, the loss of Kobe is felt deeply, but his spirit continues to live through those he inspired. “We spoke that week, and then he sent those shoes. It was tough, man,” said Barnes. Despite the pain of loss, he is grateful for the memories and the wisdom Kobe shared, both as a teammate and as a mentor. Kobe’s legacy of hard work, dedication, and kindness remains evident in the lives of those he touched, from his peers to the next generation of basketball players.