On Friday, Jan. 31, cellist and USC Thornton Strings faculty member Ben Hong performed at Staples Center in tribute to Kobe Bryant and the lives lost on Jan. 26. The tribute was part of a program to celebrate Bryant’s life preceding the Lakers’ first game since the legendary NBA player’s sudden death.
Hong performed a rendition of “Hallelujah” while a collection of highlights from Bryant’s life and career played, followed by Usher, who sang “Amazing Grace.” Lebron James closed the tribute with words on Bryant’s legacy.