It is Kobe Bryant's birthday

and players across the NBA have been sharing messages for an icon they looked up to

Clippers star Paul George has always called Kobe Bryant his favorite player

and that admiration only expanded once the two were able to form a relationship

George shared this message to

his Instagram story for Kobe's birthday

So much of Kobe's impact can be seen across the league today,

with several players drawing from his skillset, mentality, and drive

aul George is no exception, and the star wing always shoves love to his idol

his legacy and impact will live forever.