Mamba Invitational: Team Resilience Dethrones #1 Prospect Beckham Black.
Written By: Brandon Pulmano
Founder | Sideline Society Media
Mamba is the Mindset captured by Brandon Pulmano.
Scottie Adkinson, named MVP of the Mamba Invitational, poses with the trophy.
Event: Mamba Invitational
Location: L.A. LIVE: Peacock Place & Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles, California
Hosted By: Nike Basketball (in celebration of Kobe Bryant Day and the Mamba legacy)
Coverage By: Brandon Pulmano
Kobe Bryant remains a legend in every household I know.
Whether you watched him in the NBA, woke up early for his shoe drops, or just knew him through conversations, he’s definitely one of the biggest names in the sports industry. That’s why even after his departure, the Mamba Invitational remains one of the most highly anticipated events, for fans and players alike. Although this was my second year attending, the drastic changes and additions they incorporated this year made it that much more special, and generated FOMO around the country.
Upon entering the event, you’re greeted by five of his championship trophies on full display.
As you continue progressing into the venue, you approach a one-of-a-kind museum and exhibit created exclusively for Kobe’s legacy. Between the live mural painting of him with Gigi, Nike ID merchandise station along with the custom air brush tees designed by various artists, signature Nike shoes (all 1-10), this space was filled with his influence on the game and the culture.
You’re surrounded by nothing but the mamba mentality.
A regular presence at the Mamba invitational is Vanessa Bryant, Kobe Bryant's widow. Vanessa Bryant has continued to push forward Kobe’s legacy even long after his passing. She attended the event with her oldest daughter Natalia Bryant arriving an hour before the boys championship game.
17-time Grammy winning artist Alicia Keys attended the event with Swizz Beatz to support her son, Egypt Dean, who participated in the invitational. Grammy winning R&B artist Monica Denise was also in the building, cheering on her son, Romelo Hill. Chris Paul came out as well to support his son, Chris Paul Jr., during Saturday's showcase.
Looking around, it was clear the talent in the room ran deep both days. From artists, athletes, and celebrities alike. From the sidelines to the stands, the Mamba Invitational brought everyone out.
Before tip off there was a major buzz in the air.
The championship game pitted #1 prospect in the country Beckham Black on Team Obsession vs Team Resilience and #2 prospect Adan Diggs. Right from tip off Team Resilience came out with a different level of tenacity. A player that stood out to me was Demarcus Henry who had 16 points on 5-5 shooting. He had a nonstop motor throughout the whole game with a great shooting stroke on display.
That night Beckham Black didn’t really have anything to prove. He was basically on cruise control. Team Resilience was chirping at him every possession. He wasn’t fazed by it but to me it seemed like Beckham Black looked tired especially from the long summer circuit of hoop events he has attended. It should be noted that following this event, he went on to win MVP at the SLAM Summer Classic at the world famous Rucker Park in Harlem, New York.
I mean whenever your ranked #1 the opposing team always has a chip on their shoulder right.
The game wasn’t really close at all. Team Resilience won the game and free year supply of Kobe’s. Scottie Adkinson took home MVP honors with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and shooting 3-4 from the three point line.
The final score was….
Team Resilience 64-Team Obsession 47.
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