Jeff Hamilton opens up about his cherished memories with the late Kobe Bryant
In a recent interview with Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, renowned clothing designer Jeff Hamilton opened up about his cherished memories with the late Kobe Bryant. The conversation provided a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes moments that unfolded after the 2000 NBA Championship, capturing the essence of a special connection between the iconic basketball player and Hamilton.
The focal point of Hamilton’s recollection centers around the post-2000 NBA Championship locker room celebration. Describing it as a profound experience, Hamilton paints a vivid picture of the atmosphere that enveloped the room. He shares, “It has to be the locker room moment because he was… I STILL relive that moment in my head. It’s kind of like — it was a meditative state at that point.”
Hamilton’s description evokes a sense of introspection, highlighting the emotional intensity of the moment shared between him and Kobe. The exclusivity of the setting, with only three or four people present, adds to the intimacy of the memory. It becomes evident that the locker room celebration was more than just a joyous occasion; it was a shared experience that left a lasting impact on those present.
The interview sheds light on the iconic pictures captured during that momentous celebration. Hamilton expresses pride in being part of what he describes as “one of the most iconic pictures in the history of the NBA.” The images encapsulate the raw emotions of victory, and Hamilton’s reminiscence adds a personal touch to the historical narrative.
What makes this particular memory stand out is the acknowledgment of Kobe Bryant’s pain amid the celebration. Hamilton reflects on the multifaceted nature of the moment, with everyone having a different story to tell. It transcends the conventional narratives of victory, offering a more nuanced understanding of the human side of Kobe Bryant.
Hamilton credits photographer Sandy Bernstein for capturing these timeless moments. He acknowledges Bernstein’s role in immortalizing the locker room celebration through his lens. The mention of reflections on the championship trophy, with Hamilton visible in some, adds an intriguing layer to the story.
Jeff Hamilton’s recollection of the locker room moment after the 2000 NBA Championship provides a unique and intimate perspective on Kobe Bryant. The interview, facilitated by Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, offers basketball enthusiasts and fans alike a glimpse into the emotional depth of a historic victory. As we continue to celebrate Kobe Bryant’s legacy, stories like these become invaluable pieces of the larger narrative, preserving the human essence behind the basketball icon.
Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.
He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.
His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.
His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.
In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.
