Former America NBA star Kobe Bryant is dead.
Bryant died in a helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020, while on his way to a basketball academy where he coached, according to reports.
The 42-year old was among the victim of the crash which claimed the lives of nine people, including his 13-year old daughter Gianna and the coach of a college baseball team.
Bryant’s passing on has sparked an outpour of grief from celebrities, politician and fellow sports stars both In the US and around the world, with many expressing shock at his sudden death.
The NBA also issued a statement saying it was ‘devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna.’
The statement reads:
“The NBA family is devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna.
“For 20 seasons, Kobe showed us what is possible when remarkable talent blends with an absolute devotion to winning. He was one of the most extraordinary players in the history of our game with accomplishments that are legendary: five NBA championships, an NBA MVP award, 18 NBA All-Star selections, and two Olympic gold medals. But he will be remembered most for inspiring people around the world to pick up a basketball and compete to the very best of their ability. He was generous with the wisdom he acquired and saw it as his mission to share it with future generations of players, taking special delight in passing down his love of the game to Gianna.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Vanessa, and their family, the Lakers organization and the entire sports world.”
Avid and old time followers of the NBA will know that Bryant was considered one of the best players in basketball history. He retired in April 2016 after spending his entire 20-year career playing for LA Lakers.
Bryant led the Lakers to five championships and was named an All-Star in 18 of the 20 seasons he represented them.
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