In a moving essay for the Philadelphia Inquirer, Kobe Bryant's high school coach Gregg Downer shared memories of his longtime relationship with the late Los Angeles Lakers legend.

Downer also reiterated one seemingly obvious sentiment: there's won't be another Kobe.

“When asked by some stray reporter for the 50th time if I would ever have another Kobe Bryant, the answer was simple, and it will always be the same: absolutely no way,” Downer shared.

Bryant starred for Downer's Lower Merion Aces from 1992-1996, winning a state title and national player of the year honors as a senior. Downer has won three state championships in 29 seasons at Lower Merion, and Kobe called him “one of the best coaches I have ever had.”

Downer also detailed the close relationship he and Bryant maintained throughout Kobe's Hall-of-Fame career with the Lakers.

“The moments we spent together were even more special. I shot free throws with him at the old Forum before practices. I swam and ate a few meals with him at his house overlooking the Pacific. I traveled to games all over the country, including the Finals series against Indiana, Orlando, Boston, and, of course, Philly. We exchanged e-mails about strategy. I worked his basketball camps. I introduced him annually to current Aces players,” Downer furthered.

The Lower Downer also shared a particularly fond memory—when Kobe learned Downer was going to be a dad.

“In a private moment, deep in the halls of Lower Merion High School, he became one of the first to know a dream of mine was about to come true. My beautiful wife, Colleen, was pregnant,” the coach shared. “We stopped in front of Room 225 for an embrace I will never forget. He was so happy for me. And I was so happy he was there.”

Kobe Bryant passed away last January after the helicopter he was riding crashed in Calabasas, California. The Lakers icon was with his daughter Gianna and seven others. Unfortunately, no one survived the tragic accident.

The Lakers and the city of Los Angeles held a Kobe Bryant memorial last February 24. It was attended by his wife Vanessa and NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Shaquille O'Neal.