The reaction to Kobe Bryant’s tragic death shows outpouring of love by Hollywood’s biggest stars.
The reach of basketball legend Kobe Bryant reached beyond his teammates and friends. He reached the world as a whole.
The man many consider to be the GOAT was killed tragically, alongside his eldest daughter and others, on Sunday morning when their helicopter crashed in Calabasas, CA.
Immediately, fans, teammates and friends began posting their tributes to Bryant. Here are some from celebrities who knew him, or were fans like us.
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
My heart is in pieces hearing the news of this unimaginable tragedy. I can’t fathom what the families are going through. Kobe meant so much to me and to us all. Sending my prayers, love, and endless condolences to Vanessa and the family and anyone who lost someone on that flight.
— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) January 26, 2020
This is heartbreaking. Rest In Peace Kobe.
— Nick Jonas (@nickjonas) January 26, 2020
Praying for the entire Bryant family and loved ones during this tragic time.
— Nick Jonas (@nickjonas) January 26, 2020
You will be missed brother. My thoughts are with the Bryant family at this difficult time. RIP Kobe. pic.twitter.com/WV58jRJ5FZ
— Jason Kidd (@RealJasonKidd) January 26, 2020
He outworked everyone and I was so happy that he could spend more time with his beautiful family. What an authentic generous soul . Gutted for his family and everyone in that crash . We are here for a finite amount of time, remember that and say I love u more please #KobeBryant pic.twitter.com/M6oViNa1r2
— Jeremy Piven (@jeremypiven) January 26, 2020
I can’t believe it. Kobe was an absolute legend. Whenever I would see him I would light up in the cheesiest way. His talent and drive was incredible. Such a sad, tragic day. pic.twitter.com/zXWITBnbYO
— Rebel Wilson (@RebelWilson) January 26, 2020
https://twitter.com/MollyBSims/status/1221556053264883712?s=20
man, we really grew up yelling “KOBE!” when we put up jump shots. Superhero! Such a tragic loss. RIP
— Bas (@Bas) January 26, 2020
The impact and respect so many people had for Kobe cannot be measured. God bless the families impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy. 💔 Devastated pic.twitter.com/RqW12PhfDb
— Phil McGeoghan (@PhilMcGeoghan) January 26, 2020
Tributes came in on Sunday via on-court memorials such as what happened during the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs game. Both teams took a 24-second shot clock violation in honor of Bryant, who played as number 24 for the Los Angeles Lakers. There was also a moment of silence for the Bryant during The Houston Rockets and the Denver Nuggets game this afternoon.
Bryant is considered one of the greatest basketball players to ever live and played his entire 20-year career with the Lakers.