LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Hundreds gathered at a movie theater in downtown Las Vegas Friday to honor and remember Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, who was killed along with 8 others in a helicopter crash in California on Sunday.
"It's been a tough week, it's been a tough week," said Dennis Aldridge through tears.
Aldridge says the NBA superstar inspired many people and even served as the inspiration for his son's name, Kode.
"I didn't get to see everything, every part of his career, but the part that I did get to see, I was inspired by him, and I look up to him, and I'm extremely thankful to be named after him," said Kode Aldridge.
Dennis says Kobe's hard work and determination also inspired him to form a youth sports league, called the Vegas Athletic Department.
Eclipse Theater in downtown Las Vegas allowed fans to gather and to share memories.
About 200 people held a 24 second moment of silence for the victims of the helicopter crash and then broke out into chants for Kobe.
Then, fans watched the first Lakers game since the crash on three movie screens.
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"No words can describe really what my heart is feeling about Kobe Bryant, he means a lot to me, so very much," said R.V. Vital
Bryant's impact goes far beyond the City of Angels.
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Las Vegas showed its appreciation all week with tributes from Fremont Street to the world-famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign.
