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The Lakers and Blazers put on a show in honoring Kobe Bryant

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LeBron arrives before Lakers' first game since death of Kobe (0:31)

LeBron James arrives at Staples Center a few hours before the Lakers play their first game since Kobe Bryant's death. (0:31)

On Friday, the Los Angeles Lakers played a game for the first time since Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and seven others died in a helicopter accident on Sunday. The Lakers' scheduled game against the LA Clippers on Tuesday night was postponed in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The Lakers held a pregame ceremony for Bryant before tipoff against the Portland Trail Blazers and continued to honor him throughout the game, which ended in a Blazers victory.

Ramona Shelburne: How the Lakers made it to this game


Remembering Kobe: Blazers 127, Lakers 119

The Lakers and Blazers began the game by exchanging violations to honor Kobe.

Early on, James led the way as the Lakers made big plays in the first half. The Lakers' forward finished with 22 points.

In the second half, Damian Lillard caught fire with his trademark long-range shots and big finishes at the rim. Lillard finished with 48 points, 10 assists and 9 rebounds.

NBA superstars around the league were impressed.


Superstars perform to honor Kobe at Staples Center

The Lakers held pregame and halftime festivities to honor Kobe Bryant with performances by Usher, Ben Hong, Boyz II Men, Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth.

MORE: Kobe Bryant remembrances and reaction


Tributes from inside Staples Center

When fans arrived at Staples Center, they found these shirts on their seats.

LeBron James entered the building.

The Lakers also made sure Kobe's name and number will be ever present inside the arena.


Dear Kobe...


Lakers pay homage to Kobe on feet


Carmelo sits out Friday night

Carmelo Anthony played in Portland's game Wednesday night, but decided to sit out Friday's game against the Lakers.

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In his name we play. @bruceely :🀳🏾

A post shared by Damian Lillard (@damianlillard) on


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