It is with heavy hearts that we say our goodbyes to Kobe Bryant.

01.26.20. Kobe Bryant dies in a helicopter crash with his daughter, Gianna, along with 7 other passengers. They were on their way to Thousand Oaks in California where Gianna was supposed to play a basketball game while Kobe was to coach. The unfortunate crash happened in Calabasas, a city in Los Angeles. Witnesses say that it was a particularly foggy day when Kobe and 8 others died in the helicopter crash. 

It was no surprise to see many people from all over the world pay their respects to Kobe after this tragic event. The NBA suspended the Lakers versus Clippers game in Staples Center to give respect to Kobe. Fans repeatedly chanted “Kobe!” at the start of the NFL Super Bowl. Famous celebrities such as Lizzo, The Jonas Brothers, and Billie Eilish expressed their words of gratitude to Kobe during the 2020 Grammys Award Show, which also happened in Staples Center. From shouting “Kobe!” while throwing trash into a bin, to ball hogging and taking contested 3-pointers, these actions truly show how much one man affected our lives, whether Kobe fan or not.

To commemorate the great life of Kobe, let us remember his notable accomplishments during his 20-year career:

  • 5x NBA Champion (2000-2002, 2009, 2010)
  • 2x NBA Finals MVP (2009, 2010)
  • 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player
  • 18x NBA All-Star (1998, 2000-2016)
  • 11x All-NBA First Team (2002-2004, 2006-2013)
  • 9x All-NBA First Defensive Team (2000, 2003, 2004, 2006-2011)
  • 2x NBA Scoring Champion (2006, 2007)
  • Second highest scoring game ever (81 points)

…and many more.

In the end, Kobe Bryant will forever be considered a great in sports history. His dominant style of play and the “mamba mentality” have entertained, inspired, and moved us for 20 years. Kobe will always be remembered as one of the greatest players ever to step foot on the court. We also send our deepest condolences and prayers to the friends and family of Kobe Bryant, who have suffered a great loss. May Kobe’s legacy live on forever, as the man who gave all his life for the purple and gold.

01.26.20

R.I.P. Kobe Bean Bryant

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