Atlanta zoo names black mamba snake after Kobe Bryant

An Atlanta zoo has decided to honor Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant by naming one of their black mamba snakes after the star.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant is often called “The Black Mamba”. It’s extremely fitting that the Atlanta Zoo has decided to honor the future Hall of Famer by naming a black mamba snake after him. The Atlanta Hawks will honor him as well with a donation to the Atlanta Zoo in Kobe Bryant’s name.

“Kobe Bryant’s career accomplishments speak for themselves,” said Hawks and Philips Arena CEO Steve Koonin, via NBA.com. “He has set a standard with his incredible work ethic, tremendous will and competitive spirit. We’re happy to be partnering with Zoo Atlanta to recognize the impact Kobe has made on the NBA and its popularity worldwide.”

“Zoo Atlanta is thrilled to be part of this very special tribute. Mr. Bryant is a legend on the court, and the black mamba is a legend in the wild,” said Raymond B. King, President and CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “We’re proud to partner with our home team, the Atlanta Hawks, on recognizing Mr. Bryant’s contributions to sports with the naming of this animal, and we hope everyone will visit Scaly Slimy Spectacular, our newest destination at Zoo Atlanta, to see the new namesake in person.”

The snake even has the same cold-blooded stare as Kobe.