The entire sports world mourned the passing of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant on Sunday. He, along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven other people, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash.
Bryant was one of the best basketball players to ever lace them up, winning five NBA championships in 20 seasons in addition to being named an All-Star 18 times. His legacy is much bigger than just basketball though as after retiring he won an Oscar for his short film ‘Dear Basketball’ in addition to a number of other successful business ventures.
Most importantly though, he was a father to four beautiful daughters and a husband to his wife Vanessa.
Bryant was a diehard Philadelphia Eagles fan, but being the L.A. legend that he is, he also embraced the Rams when they moved to the city.
The work that Bryant did in the local community is unparalleled, but Jared Goff and the Rams have followed his lead by doing great as well with the California Strong initiative beginning in 2018 after the Borderline Bar and Grill shooting and California wildfires. That work hopefully will continue in Bryant’s memory.
Goff, Eric Weddle, other Rams players and the organization itself all took to social media to share their shock with the world and offer condolences to all of the families involved in the tragic crash.
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 26, 2020
Thank you Kobe for everything you gave us both on and off the court. Your legacy will live on forever in the hearts of millions. Truly one of a kind. Praying for his family, loved ones, and everyone involved. Rest In Peace Mamba
— Jared Goff (@JaredGoff16) January 26, 2020
Words are hard to find right now. Still shocked. Sad day. Kobe, Gianna and the other 7 u will not be forgotten. I was 11 when u first entered the NBA. I wanted to be U. So kind and thoughtful when we met. I will miss you Kobe. Will only be 1 MAMBA! Praying for the Bryant family. pic.twitter.com/vlnpaBx4F9
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) January 26, 2020
I still cant believe it. 😔 https://t.co/DwVAVb88uv
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) January 27, 2020
Just realized I met Kobe exactly 4 yrs ago to the day. Jan 26th, 2016…. 😥
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) January 27, 2020
Sad day. Thank you Kobe. Rest in peace to the legend and the others in the crash. Prayers to everyone and their families.
— Tyler Higbee (@Ty_Higs19) January 26, 2020
Still in disbelief…… Can’t believe it/process this. One of my biggest inspirations as an athlete growing up. His work ethic, mentality, passion for the game…. bruh.
— Sebastian Joseph-Day (@SJD_51) January 26, 2020
Hearts out to Kobe and his family
— Joshua Reynolds (@J_Rey_11) January 26, 2020
Sad we lost a sports icon so early RIP Kobe Bryant 😪
— Dante fowler (@dantefowler) January 26, 2020
It’s difficult when a man with such an incredible reach passes suddenly. A painful reminder that tomorrow is never guaranteed. Praying for those families impacted by this loss, as well as all the athletes and young people across the world that were inspired through Kobe’s life.
— Johnny Hekker (@JHekker) January 27, 2020
