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#ForKobe trends after Lakers clinch top seed in Western Conference, emotional fans pay tribute to Kobe Bryant

An emotional fan wrote, 'It's been so long since the Lakers were the number 1 seed and the last time it happened the Mamba lead the team to a championship go get another one'

Following their victory over Utah Jazz by 116-108 on Monday, August 3, the Los Angeles Lakers have clinched the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. However, it hasn't been an easy journey for the Lakers. This is the first time since 2010 that the Lakers have earned the top spot in the Western Conference -- their first playoff appearance in seven years (the longest stretch in franchise history). This makes it the first time in a decade that the Lakers are set to finish in the best record in their conference. This also makes it impossible for the Clippers to pass them for the No. 1 seed. 

With the Lakers now in the playoffs, the Internet cannot help but pay tribute to Kobe Bryant. The hashtag #ForKobe started trending on Twitter as more and more fans dedicate the win to him. "Words cannot explain my emotions right now. It’s been 6 frickin years. SIX YEARS. We are officially locked in #1 seed in the West. We are not done yet. #ForKobe" a fan tweeted. 

"*Cues music* “It’s been a longggg time coming but I knowwww change gone come, oh yes it will” #1 SEED IN THE WEST. It’s our year! #Lakeshow #ForKobe," another supported added.

Overwhelmed fans have taken over Twitter to express their gratitude for the latest win and in the hope that history will repeat itself, even with Kobe not around anymore. "It's been so long since the Lakers were the number 1 seed and the last time it happened the Mamba lead the team to a championship go get another one #Lakers #ForKobe," one tweeted.

There were also special dedications to Anthony Davis, who reached the 20-point mark in the first half of a game for the 20th time this season. Bryant was the last Lakers player to accomplish this feat during the 2012-13 campaign. In an interview with ESPN, he said, "I just got chills. To be in a category with [Kobe Bryant], I know he's looking down on us and cheering us on, so we want to do it for him."

And hence, supporters are investing their confidence in him. "The last time the Lakers had the Number 1 Seed, Kobe led us to an NBA Championship. This time LeBron & AD will carry us to Title Number 17! #ForKobe," wrote a fan. 

"How beautiful would it be - after losing Kobe this year, going through a pandemic, a greater depression, a first time NBA shutdown - for @KingJames & @Lakers to take home the championship this year?#ForKobe," wrote another.