On Thursday, President Donald Trump declared that Kobe Bryant—one of basketball’s most revered figures—will be enshrined in the National Garden of American Heroes, a future monument honoring the nation’s most influential individuals. Bryant, who tragically died in a helicopter crash in January 2020 with his daughter Gianna and seven others, will be remembered alongside civil rights leaders, sports icons, and cultural pioneers.

“Martin Luther King Jr., Muhammad Ali. Not a bad athlete, what do you think, Muhammad? Not too bad. And the late Kobe Bryant. People love Kobe Bryant,” Trump remarked during his announcement. “We’re going to save Tiger Woods for another time.”

Bryant’s name joins a prestigious list of legends like Dr. King, Ali, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, Coretta Scott King, Frederick Douglass, and Jackie Robinson—a tribute to his lasting impact beyond the sport of basketball.

A Legacy Beyond Basketball

Kobe Bryant’s influence was never confined to basketball. While he was a five-time NBA champion, an MVP, an 18-time All-Star, and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, his impact reached far beyond the game. He was a global ambassador for the sport, an advocate for women’s athletics, a storyteller, and a philanthropist whose work touched countless communities in need. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Bryant granted over 200 wishes, uplifting the spirits of children battling severe illnesses. Alongside his wife Vanessa, he co-founded the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, a program aimed at supporting disadvantaged youth, fostering athletic and social growth, and aiding homeless families in Los Angeles.

Bryant was a passionate supporter of the next generation, particularly in women’s basketball. His deep love for his daughter Gianna, and the dedication he showed to growing the sport she cherished, left a lasting impact on young athletes everywhere. His “Mamba Mentality” was more than a mantra—it embodied a relentless drive to push past limitations, pursue excellence, and strive for greatness, regardless of the challenges.

A Tribute Well Deserved

In Los Angeles, where he became a legendary figure, Bryant already has two statues outside Crypto.com Arena, with a third on the way. But this recognition extends beyond the city—it secures his legacy in American history, where his influence will be remembered not only by basketball fans but by future generations.

The National Garden of American Heroes, initially proposed in 2020, is designed to honor the nation’s most influential individuals. And Kobe, through his contributions both on and off the court, unquestionably earned his place.

This announcement coincides with the Lakers, currently holding a 32-21 record, fighting for a spot in the Western Conference playoffs. Even in his absence, Bryant’s spirit continues to influence the team. Every young player who wears the Lakers’ colors strives to meet the standard he set. Fans at Crypto.com Arena still feel the lasting weight of his legacy.

Now, his memory will be immortalized in a place where all Americans can reflect, honor, and remember the man who inspired millions with his determination, dedication, and steadfast belief in the power of hard work.

Though Kobe Bryant is no longer with us, the legacy he created will forever endure.