It is always great to witness the legends of the game getting recognition and honor. It means so much more to those players who retired years ago, a token of appreciation goes a long way. These athletes dedicate their entire life, to working on their craft, tackling challenges, and trying to become the best they can be. It takes unthinkable sacrifices to become great and the effort should be appreciated and honored.

Among the many ways to recognize contributions made by an athlete for a team, club, or country, is to retire their jersey. It speaks to the athletes’ love and dedication for their team and franchise. The gesture also suggests that the number associated with their jersey carries a great amount of pride and cannot be duplicated. In one such event, honoring Pau Gasol, the LA Lakers put up a show which was attended by the likes of Kareem-Abdul Jabbar and Magic Johnson among many others.

Together in the rafters

The 2x NBA Champion joined the Lakers in 2008. In the 6 years that he spent with the Lakers, he formed a great on and off-court relationship with the late great Kobe Bryant. The duo performed magic on the court and that is where Gasol earned his 2 NBA Championships. The Lakers honored Gasol on a packed night among stars and fans by retiring his jersey.

This marked the 13th retired jersey from the Los Angeles team. Notably, the 17x NBA Champion franchise retired both jerseys of Bryant #8 & #24. In a video shown at the event, the Mamba talked about Gasol’s jersey retirement ceremony. An excited Bryant said he was looking forward to the day when Gasol will give a speech at center court.

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The event was marked by the presence of greats like Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. The two legends showed appreciation to Gasol as well as Lakers organization on Twitter. Jabbar wrote, “It was honor to support @paugasol as @Lakers retired his jersey. My heart will be smiling for a long time after seeing #16 hanging next to #24 in perpetuity. #Lakerlegends”.

The unveiling

As the banner was unveiled during the half-time ceremony, Gasol’s jersey was put next to Bryant’s. Gasol choked up after seeing Bryant’s video and his jersey next to his late friend’s. Holding back tears, an emotional Gasol addressed the crowd. He said, “I’m just overwhelmed to see the faces here, all of you,”. “It’s been my honor to wear this jersey, to play for this franchise, and to help this team. I would have never in a million years believed a day like this could come. It just tells you to never say never. Just push yourself every day to be the best that you can be.”

Gasol’s wife, his parent, two brothers, Bryant’s widow Vanessa and Lakers owner Jeanie Buss joined him on the court.

Who are the other Lakers legends you think should be honored? Tell us in the comments.

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