Kobe Bryant, one of basketball’s greatest players and most masterful scorers of all time, was among the passengers who died Sunday in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. Bryant was 41.
The icon was in the company of his 14-year-old daughter Gianna who also perished in the crash. Gianna and her father were en route to an AAU basketball game Sunday morning when the helicopter crashed.
The news sent shockwaves to the whole world and especially those invested in sports including football, basketball and track racing.
Bryant retired in 2016 as a five-time NBA champion, 11-time All-NBA first-team selection, 2008 MVP, two-time Finals MVP, 18-time All-Star and four-time All-Star MVP who spent his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. He also won gold medals with USA Basketball at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2012 London Olympics.
Messages of condolences to the family have been flowing since the incident was confirmed. Below, we sample a few of the messages…
Words can’t describe this lost. Prayers for your family and friends. Endless legacy @kobebryant R.I.P Gianna & Kobe pic.twitter.com/BXZ5H3rLzq
— Fernando Torres (@Torres) January 27, 2020
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💔 pic.twitter.com/qKb3oiDHxH
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) January 26, 2020
R.I.P legend, and Thank you for giving us some of the best moments of our life. #24 pic.twitter.com/BMeCV7Qq1v
— Victor Wanyama (@VictorWanyama) January 26, 2020
We are shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant.
The world of sport has lost a true legend. We send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and families of all the victims at this terribly sad time. pic.twitter.com/ZuNk5SClEe
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 26, 2020
A true sporting icon. A legend among legends. An incredible legacy.
Kobe Bryant transcended sports and will never be forgotten.
RIP, Kobe ❤️ pic.twitter.com/eLfjJ1WHUE
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 26, 2020