Mumbai, Jan 27 (IANS) NBA legend Kobe Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash on Sunday in Southern California, was instrumental in inspiring kids to take up basketball in India among other places, said a former NBA India official. Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter died in the helicopter crash sending shockwaves through the sporting world and beyond. He was 41.
NBA Legend Kobe Bryant
“A true legend of the game, Kobe has been an inspiration to millions of sports fans across the world. He was a great ambassador for the game of basketball and has been instrumental in inspiring kids to play the game across the world, including in India,” Yannick Colaco, Co-Founder of FanCode, said.
Colaco worked with NBA India as managing director for six years between 2013-2019.
“The Black Mamba, as he was fondly referred to, will always be remembered for his extraordinary talent and his relentless drive. His passing will leave a big void in the world of sports but he will forever live on in the hearts of his fans.
“We would like to offer our deepest condolences to Kobe Bryant’s family and friends,” he added.
The Los Angeles Lakers legend was a five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star.
News of Bryant’s death made Shaquille O’Neal sick
Kobe Bryant’s former teammate Shaquille O’Neal said on Monday that he became “sick” after hearing the news of the NBA lagend’s sudden demise, adding that he had no words to express what he was going through.
“There’s no words to express the pain I’m going through now with this tragic and sad moment of loosing my niece Gigi & my friend, my brother, my partner in winning championships, my dude and my homie. I love you and you will be missed. My condolences goes out to the Bryant family and the families of the other passengers on board. I’M SICK RIGHT NOW,” O’Neal was quoted as saying by Fox 5SanDiego.com.
Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter died in a helicopter crash in Southern California on Sunday night, sending shockwaves through the sporting world and beyond. He was 41.
The Los Angeles Lakers legend was a five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star.
“Nooooooooooo God please No!” retired NBA player Dwyane Wade tweeted at the news.
Former NBA player Scottie Pippen tweeted: “I’m stunned. Words can’t even come close to describing it. Just an incredibly sad and tragic day.”
