As the world tries to come to terms with the crash that claimed the life of basketball superstar Kobe Bryant, dignitaries across the world are paying tribute to the NBA legend.
Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna were among nine people killed in a helicopter crash in the city of Calabasas, California on Sunday, January 26, 2020.
At 41, Bryant’s passing on has sparked an outpour of grief from celebrities, politicians and fans in the US and around the world, with many expressing shock at his sudden death.
But the tragedy of his early death, and that of his daughter is primarily a family one. Sport’s shock and grief is second to that of wife, daughters, parents, friends.
From the president in his oval office at the White House to a local basketball team in a remote island in Italy, these tributes are a testament of how popular the late Bryant was.
People, as we know, can still set aside their differences to mourn together in the face of tragedy.
We’ve compiled a list of dignitaries and fans that have paid tribute to the NBA superstar. Check them out below:
Celebrities
Alicia Keys and Lizzo lead tributes to Kobe Bryant at Grammy awards
Politicians
Reports are that basketball great Kobe Bryant and three others have been killed in a helicopter crash in California. That is terrible news!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 26, 2020
Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act. To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 26, 2020
Sporting superstars
“You’ve really been there for me all 20 years of my life…. been there for me since I was born.. love you” – Shareef O’Neal
“Words can’t describe the pain I’m feeling. I loved Kobe. He was like a little brother to me” — Michael Jordan
“Today is one of the saddest day in my life. If you got a chance to know Kobe, to really know Kobe, there ain’t nobody better man” –Dwayne Wade
“I’m not ready, but here I go. I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!! Man I love you big bro.” – LeBron James
‘I have no words… all my love for Kobe’s family and friends. It was a pleasure to meet you and share good times together.You were a genius like few others” – Lionel Messi
‘So sad to hear the heartbreaking news of the deaths of Kobe and his daughter Gianna. Kobe was a true legend and inspiration to so many. Sending my condolences to his family and friends and the families of all who lost their lives in the crash. RIP Legend” – Cristiano Ronado
“Sad day for us in sports, for us fans and especially for family and kobe friends. A legend has been made with your hands, thank you for extolling the Kobe sport … may God comfort the hearts of your family and friends” – Neymar
‘He burned so competitively hot. And the desire to win… he brought it each and every night on both ends of the floor” – Tiger Woods.
“I didn’t spend time with him but I met him. I have a very close friend that was playing with him for a long time , and he always told me he has the spirit of overcoming, of hardworking, he always wanted more, he always wanted to increase his level, he has been a true inspiration for the world of sport” – Rafael Nadal
“Forever one of us” – Bryant’s Italian youth team
Fans
Photo Credit: Instagram
