Tragic news out of Calabasas, California on Sunday morning.
Former Los Angeles Laker and NBA legend Kobe Bryant has been pronounced dead following a helicopter crash.
Bryant and several others were traveling across Southern California in his private helicopter, which he has been known to travel in even dating back to his days with the Lakers, when the aircraft went down. A fire broke out and first responders confirmed 9 dead, including Bryant and his 13 year old daughter Gianna Maria.
Bryant is widely considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time. Through his 20 year career with the Lakers, the 1996 first round pick won 5 NBA championship titles, 2 NBA finals MVP's, the 2008 NBA MVP, and an All-Star spot 18 of his 20 years in the league.
He is also the only player in Lakers history to have both of his jersey numbers (8 & 24) retired.
Bryant is survived by his wife Vanessa, and three daughters, Natalia, Bianca and their newborn Capri.
Rest In Peace to one of the most iconic NBA Athletes of all time, his young daughter and all of those who perished in this tragic accident.
Kobe Bryant dead at 41 after helicopter crash, according to reporthttps://t.co/xBdE3dFpPy— SB Nation (@SBNation) January 26, 2020
“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” - Kobe Bryant
