Dynamic Los Angeles Clippers star, Kawhi Leonard, became the first recipient of the Kia NBA All-Star Game Kobe Bryant MVP Award at the 2020 All-Star Game this weekend.
Playing for Team LeBron, the 28-year-old scored 25 of his 30 points in the first half of the game and went 8-for-14 overall from the 3-point-range which helped to push him over the top to win his first All-Star Game MVP award.
“It’s very special,” Leonard said. “I had a relationship with him. Words can’t explain how happy I am to be able to put that trophy in my room, in my trophy room, and just be able to see Kobe’s name on there.
“It just means a lot to me. He’s a big inspiration in my life. He did a lot for me.”
Leonard can add the MVP trophy to several other accolades he’s earned over the years. He’s appeared at the All-Star Game four times in his career and is also a two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP. He’s also earned two Defensive Player of the Year awards and three All-NBA honors.
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