On Jan 26, 2020, the United States was shaken and in complete shock at what was being broadcasted on our televisions and phones. The world lost a hero, a legend and icon, Kobe Bryant, and his daughter Gianna Bryant. Kobe Bryant was an NBA basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers throughout his 20-year professional basketball career. Some of Bryantâs basketball accolades include 5-time NBA champion, 2-time NBA Finals MVP, 18-time NBA All-Star, NBAs 2008 Most Valuable Player and so much more.
Bryant tragically passed away in a helicopter accident in Calabasas, CA. Those also involved in the helicopter accident with Kobe Bryant were Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester and Ara Zobayan. Los Angeles natives mourned the death of Kobe Bryant the hardest. Many LA natives grew up watching Bryant on television as he won his first NBA championship, scored 81 points in one game and play his last NBA game ever while scoring 60 points. Kobe Bryant stayed loyal to the city of Los Angeles, which is why he holds such a special place in the âCity of Angelsâ heart. Kobe Bryant brought the whole city of Los Angeles together. It didn’t matter if you were Black, Hispanic, Caucasian, or Asian; Kobe Bryant had a heavy impact on everyone’s lives.
Kobe Bryant was not like every other NBA star of his time. He would spend countless hours in the gym and focused on winning and putting on a show for his devoted fans. Yet, he always made sure that he stepped out on that court every night and gave it all he could through the many injuries he would have. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, “Kobe Bryant’s intense desire to play through injuries was because he didn’t want to disappoint fans who came to see him play.”
Not only did we lose the legendary NBA basketball player, but we also lost his prodigy and daughter Gianna Bryant. Gianna Bryant had a bright future in basketball ahead of her. She had dreams and aspirations of becoming a WNBA player and her young basketball skills showed that she could have been one of the best to play in the WNBA. The father-daughter duo’s bond was incredible and remarkable to see. Kobe Bryant coached Gianna Bryantâs AAU basketball team and even would take her to many Lakers games.
On every social media platform, Kobe Bryantâs legacy is always praised and respected because of how much dedication he put into the game of basketball. Kobe Bryant was recently inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on May 15. His daughter Natalia Bryant and wife, Vanessa Bryant, accepted his Hall of Fame Jacket and honor. Vanessa Bryant ended her speech at the Hall of Fame Awards by stating, “You’re a true Champ. You’re not just an MVP. You’re an all-time great. I’m so proud of you. I love you forever and always, Kobe Bean Bryant.”
Kobe Bryantâs legacy will forever be remembered across the whole world. His mamba mentality, perseverance and commitment to basketball and life will always be indebted in the hearts of basketball lovers and people who admired him as a person. Rest in Peace, Kobe Bryant and the other individuals on that helicopter.