Local Athletes, Public Figures React To Death Of Philadelphia Native Kobe Bryant
PHILADELPHIA (CBS)-- The news of Philadelphia native Kobe Bryant's death spread quickly on Sunday. According to CBS Los Angeles, Bryant was on board a helicopter that crashed in Calabasas, California.
Bryant was among nine people killed in the crash.
The Sixers said in a statement:
"The Philadelphia 76ers organization mourns the losses of NBA icon Kobe Bryant, his daughter, Gianna, and all of who passed away tragically today in an accident in California.
Bryant, one of the most decorated players in NBA history and a global ambassador for the game, made an everlasting mark on our league. His determination, passion to win and fierce competitiveness fueled the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships and inspired millions of people around the world.
Bryant's journey to icon status in the world of basketball included deep ties to the Philadelphia region, where he starred at Lower Merion High School from 1992-96. As he honed his craft in Philadelphia, Bryant established a reputation as a player with once-in-a-lifetime poise, grit, heart and an unwavering love of the game.
While his imprint on the game of basketball will be etched in the history books forever, Bryant will also be remembered for his love of his family, commitment to community through his philanthropic work, and for being an innovative leader in business.
The 76ers organization sends its sincerest condolences to Vanessa Bryant and the Bryant family during this incredibly difficult time. We also send our condolences to Jeanie Buss, the Los Angeles Lakers organization and Kobe Bryant fans everywhere."
The news of the basketball legend's death left many athletes and figures from our area heartbroken. They took to social media after hearing about the crash.
Wow!!! ???????????? no no no!!
— Tobias Harris (@tobias31) January 26, 2020
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 26, 2020
I'm so sorry. We will never forget you.
— Furkan Korkmaz (@FurkanKorkmaz) January 26, 2020
RIP #KobeBryant pic.twitter.com/N1cP3UW4HF
A legend born & raised right here in Philly...
— PhilaUnion (@PhilaUnion) January 26, 2020
We're keeping Kobe Bryant's family and friends in our thoughts ???? Rest easy, Black Mamba. pic.twitter.com/lcgOasGd6l
I've always wanted to be like you. Not only as a player but also as a person. You represent everything that is great about sports. #RIPKobe
— Claude Giroux (@28CGiroux) January 26, 2020
Prayers up for his family. So sad and heartbreaking.
— Carson Wentz (@cj_wentz) January 26, 2020
Shocked and saddened to hear about Kobe Bryant. To us in Philly he was one of ours. His loss will be felt throughout the city. #ripkobe
— M. Night Shyamalan ⌛ (@MNightShyamalan) January 26, 2020
Rest In Peace Kobe Bryant - a sad day for all of sports - Kobe was a pioneer and legendary ambassador for the game of basketball . Thoughts and prayers go out to Kobe's family . https://t.co/kn03JPIjzb
— Jay Wright (@VUCoachJWright) January 26, 2020
Heartbroken. From local phenom to global superstar, Kobe's journey was great, and his legacy will continue to inspire for generations. His daughter was poised to carry the torch, and there are no words for this tragic loss. Praying for the Bryant family. https://t.co/d4jucXXC0V
— Jim #VaxUpPhilly Kenney (@PhillyMayor) January 26, 2020
Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act. To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 26, 2020
Jill and I are sending our prayers to the Bryant family and to everyone who lost loved ones in today's crash. It's a reminder of how special — and fragile — life is. And it's a reminder that we've got to make every day count.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) January 26, 2020
???????????????????? Kobe this cant be real!!!
— MeekMill (@MeekMill) January 26, 2020
A legend is gone too soon. RIP Kobe. #mamba
— Carson Wentz (@cj_wentz) January 26, 2020
Follow CBS Los Angeles' full coverage on Kobe Bryant's tragic death