As previously reported, Kobe Bryant is dead at the age of 41.
This is a sentence that remains impossible to comprehend, no matter how many times you read it.
The basketball legend was riding in a private helicopter over Calabasas, California with his 13-year old daughter, Gianna, and six other passengers when the vehicle crashed down to the ground.
Everyone on board died from the impact.
In the wake of this tragedy, new information has been confirmed by various outlets, while athletes and entertainers from around the world have reacted in total shock and major sorrow.
Below, we run down the latest on the death of Kobe Bryant…
– After taking off from John Wayne Airport, the helicopter passed over Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles and circled over Glendale before going down near Las Virgenes Road and Willow Glen Street in Calabasas around 9:47 a.m.
– Fog was so bad in the area around that time that Los Angeles Police Department’s Air Support Division choppers were grounded due to the conditions.
– Kobe was scheduled to coach his daughter’s game at his Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks on Sunday.
– The Grammy Awards were held not just in Los Angeles, but at Staples Center, where Bryant played a his Laker home games prior to retiring in 2016.
As a result, the ceremony opened with Alicia Keys paying tribute to the NBA legend, while many other musicians later did the same:
Bryant is considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time.
During his 20-year tenure with the Lakers he made 18 All-Star teams and won five championships.
The stunning news came mere hours after LeBron James surpassed Bryant for number-three on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
In what will be Kobe’s final tweet, he celebrated James by writing:
“Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother #33644.”
Here is a look at how many in Hollywood who knew Kobe and/or were influenced by Kobe reacted on Sunday to his death:
Shaquille O’Neal: “There’s no words to express the pain I’m going through now with this tragic and sad moment of loosing my friend, my brother, my partner in winning championships, my dude and my homie. I love you brother and you will be missed. My condolences goes out to the Bryant family and the families of the other passengers on board. IM SICK RIGHT NOW!”
Magic Johnson: “As I try to write this post, my mind is racing. I’m in disbelief and have been crying all morning over this devastating news that Kobe and his young daughter, Gigi have passed away in a helicopter crash. Cookie and I are heartbroken.”
Barack Obama: “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.”
Tom Brady: “We miss you already Kobe.”
Kim Kardashian: “I am praying for the Bryant family, the Altobelli family and the families of all who perished in this unthinkable tragedy. Rest In Peace Legend.”
Taylor Swift: “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.”
Kevin Hart: “This honestly doesn’t make sense….I just saw you man. This hurts my heart. God please place your hands on his family and help guide them thru this unbearable time. We love you forever man…Legends never die!!!! #MambaMentality #RIP…. RIP to the other passengers as well as sending prayers to their families.”
Justin Bieber: “It can’t be. You always encouraged me mamba. Gave me me some of the best quotes that we smile about to this day.! Love you man!”
Demi Lovato: “This makes me so sad. Kobe you were always so sweet to me. Known you over 10 years.. not super well but we always joked about you coming over and playing that game of horse! You will he so missed by so many. You’re a legend with wings now. RIP Kobe.”
Dwayne Johnson: “Love is forever.”
Chrissy Teigen: “I cannot believe this is real. My god. Oh my god. Downtown right now and nothing feels more unimportant than what we are doing today. This is absolutely terrible. Everyone is numb.”
Drake: “it can’t be.”
Mariah Carey: “In shock right now. RIP Kobe.”
Kris Jenner: “Devastated by the news of losing our precious Kobe Bryant. Words cannot express our sadness. All my deepest love and prayers are with Vanessa and Kobe’s family at this time. I don’t have the words. Every ounce of my heart is with you, Vanessa.”
Tristan Thompson: “I’m at a loss for words. I can’t believe this man. RIP Kobe and his daughter Gianna, it was a honor to be able to compete with you. Incredible player, even better person.”
John Legend: “I’m so sad and stunned right now. In Staples Arena, where Kobe created so many memories for all of us, preparing to pay tribute to another brilliant man we lost too soon, Nipsey Hussle. Life can be so brutal and senseless sometimes. Hold on to your loved ones. We miss you, Kobe.”
Jimmy Kimmel: “So far 2020, you suck.”
Ellen DeGeneres: “Like everyone, I’m stunned and saddened by the news about Kobe Bryant. My heart is broken for his wife and family.”
Bella Hadid: “I can’t believe this…Rest in Peace King…. thinking about Vanessa and their beautiful children during this time….”
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