TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (WIAT) — An Alabama restaurant owner recalled
memories from Kobe Bryant’s stop in Tuscaloosa in 2018 after
learning about the death of the NBA star, husband, and father.
Bryant came to Tusclaoosa in 2018 to visit members of the
University of Alabama football team. He also enjoyed a meal at the
Full Moon restaurant in Tuscaloosa.
“I can not emphasize enough what a great, kind, and humble guy
he was when he was here visiting us. He spoke with our staff and
our managers and our guests in the dining room before and after his
meal and he was just a very very kind and friendly guy and you
would not think he is a superstar,” said Brian Ahmed, the owner
of the Full Moon restaurant in Tuscaloosa.
Ahmed said the staff was just excited to be able to share some
southern cooking with the legendary player.
“Of all the places he’s been and all the things he’s done
and for him to be so excited to be here visiting Alabama football
and Tuscaloosa was a great experience for all of us, and I’m sure
the players really enjoyed that experience too,” said Ahmed.
The owner and others were saddened to learn of Bryant’s
passing Sunday and offered prayers to his family.
“I could not believe it, such a young age, 41 years old and
just a horrible shock,” Ahmed continued. “I mean all we can do
is send our condolences and our prayers to that family and all
those families that were impacted.”
A photo of Bryant and Ahmed can be found on the wall of the
restaurant. Bryant also signed a restaurant t-shirt that is still
in a case at the business.
