The Lakers legend will deservingly be immortalized within the rafters.
Any chance to be immortalized within your franchise is an incredible. With the history the Lakers have some may argue it makes it that much more special but Pau Gasol is forever deserving of the honor to have his jersey retired.
Gasol and a second round pick was traded over to the Lakers that sent Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie and the rights to Marc Gasol along with a couple first round picks to the Grizzlies. Lakers fans rejoiced at the thought of getting some value for Brown, but not many truly knew what was in store.
Gasol paired up with Kobe Bryant and the flurry of talent surrounding the franchise and helped propel the Lakers to three finals appearances and back-to-back championships. Gasol also reached the All-Star game three times during his six season tenure.
What better way to celebrate the basketball story of Gasol on the Lakers than to retire his jersey next to his late friend Bryant. A moment the future Hall of Famer will never forget but once he still can’t fathom (via Spectrum SportsNet).
“An unthinkable thing for me. We were getting closer to the day and it’s hard for me to really put myself there. I’m beyond honored. Beyond thankful and appreciative of just the thought. The fact itself is just incredible. It’s going to be emotional.”
An illustrious career for Gasol and a name that rings through Spain for his play on the national team. Gasol helped bring Spain onto the international basketball map, but when Lakers fans hear the number 16, they will remember Gasol and his bond with Bryant and his lasting effects to the Lakers organization.
