At a time when rankings and lists seem determined to rewrite NBA history, Vanessa Bryant chose a different path: remembrance. And she did it without speeches, without controversy, without words. Just an image, a date, and a beat. Recently, she shared an Instagram story featuring a black-and-white photo of Kobe Bryant wearing his number 8 jersey. In the photo, Kobe holds a handwritten sign with the number “81.”. The image was paired with the instrumental of “Shook Ones Pt. II” by Mobb Deep. Raw, direct, New York-style. Just like the message she wanted to send.
According to sports outlet Essentiallysports, that “81” isn’t just any number. It’s the one Kobe Bryant scored on January 22, 2006, against the Toronto Raptors. It remains the second-highest point total in a single NBA game. But beyond the record, it was a performance that defined his essence. It was an epic day filled with intensity, precision, and a hunger for victory. The Lakers were losing that game. Kobe wasn’t chasing stats—he was chasing a win. And he delivered a performance that still feels unreal today.
Vanessa Bryant answers at number 11 with number 81
Nothing random
Vanessa Bryant’s post wasn’t random. The date 8/1 is a symbolic nod to Bryant’s 81-point game. A reminder for those who lived it, and a lesson for those who forgot. Because lately, some media outlets have tried to downplay his legacy. One example that stirred backlash was Bleacher Report ranking Kobe Bryant 11th among the greatest players of all time. Eleventh. Behind names that, while brilliant, never inspired the same fear or respect Kobe commanded on the court.
Reactions came quickly. Dwyane Wade, on his podcast, was clear: “If you ask the players who faced Kobe Bryant, we all put him in the top 3.” Kendrick Perkins was even more blunt: “Enough with the disrespect. Kobe was dominant on both ends of the floor.” Both faced him. Both suffered him. And both respect him.
Kobe Bryant played 20 years with the same team. No superteams, no jersey swaps. Five championships, one MVP. And countless moments that shaped generations. That’s why many say his legacy doesn’t need defending. But when it’s challenged, his family and peers rise with strength and sincerity.
