LeBron James makes permanent tribute to Kobe Bryant with tattoo of NBA legend
by Alex SmithLeBron James has paid tribute to Kobe Bryant by getting a tattoo of his hero.
LA Lakers star James visited his tattoo artist Vanessa Aurelia alongside teammate Anthony Davis on Thursday evening before popping out for food at a restaurant.
James showed off Aurelia in action doing the art on his leg in an Instagram story, with one image posted with the message: "It's that time again! Working with my girl @nessaurelia!! Gang gang!"
The finished product of the ink was kept under a plastic wrap by James, but it appeared to show an image of a snake with the caption "Mamba 4 Life" seemingly written underneath it.
Mamba is in reference to Black Mamba - the nickname given to Bryant during his star studded career.
NBA legend Bryant was killed alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven other people when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed just outside of Los Angeles, California, last Sunday.
James is set to return to the court with the Lakers on Friday having trained this week.
Earlier this week, he posted an emotional message about Bryant.
The message read: "I’m Not Ready but here I go.
"Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had!
"I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA.
"Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. WTF!! I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!!
"Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids.
"I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!!
"Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!"