Luka Doncic has taken action by financing the complete restoration of a mural honoring Kobe and Gigi Bryant, which had been vandalized in Los Angeles. The star guard of the Los Angeles Lakers contributed $5,000 on Tuesday, matching the restoration goal set on a GoFundMe page organized by artist Louie Palsino, aimed at reviving the mural titled Mambas Forever, situated at the intersection of 14th and Main streets.

“It was always important to give back to the community,” Doncic remarked following practice at the Lakers’ training facility. “They gave me so much, so I just want to give back.”

The Slovenian player joined the Lakers about three months prior in a prominent trade with the Dallas Mavericks. He has teamed up with LeBron James, steering the Lakers towards the Pacific Division title and securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. However, the Lakers are currently facing elimination as they prepare for Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, who lead the series 3-1.

Kobe Bryant played his entire 20-year career with the Lakers, winning five championships and setting the record as the franchise’s top scorer. Following the tragic death of Kobe and Gigi Bryant in a helicopter accident in January 2020, countless murals and public art initiatives honoring them have emerged across Southern California.