Within the next few years, David joined a basketball team, Kobe Bryant became his role model, and he even compiled the dates for upcoming Laker games so that he wouldn’t miss any of the action. When he found out that Make-A-Wish volunteers were coming to meet him and that he would be able to wish for something, his mind was set without hesitation: David wished to meet “the most phenomenal player in basketball,” Kobe. 

Thanks to the Make-A-Wish team and the Lakers organization, David’s wish was granted. 

Upon arrival at the Lakers training facility on his wish day, David and some of the other wish kids present shot some hoops as they eagerly awaited Kobe’s arrival. When Kobe walked in, David and the others enjoyed meeting him, asking him questions, getting autographs, and taking photos. However, his favorite part of the day was when Kobe gave each of the wish kids a pair of shoes—Kobe 8’s to be exact.  

After the wish, David always wore the shoes in his basketball games. “They made me play better when I wore them,” he said.  

David still has his signed yellow Kobe Jersey and pictures of his wish hanging in his home. He often thinks about how awesome it was to meet Kobe and spend such a special day with his family.  

“I’ll never forget that day. It was so memorable, and it made me feel like anything is possible. Thank you for making my wish a reality.”