Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson had a long string of tweets in remembrance of fellow Lakers great Kobe Bryant on the one-year anniversary of his tragic death.
Johnson began by saying he prayed for Bryant's widow, Vanessa, and Kobe's daughters.
This morning I prayed for Vanessa Bryant and the girls. 🙏🏾
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 26, 2021
Vanessa and the kids did not just lose a husband and father on that fateful day one year ago, but also a daughter and sister.
Gianna Bryant was another one of the passengers in the helicopter crash that killed nine people. Johnson named the victims of the crash in remembrance.
On this day, one year later, we want to remember not only Kobe but Gianna Bryant, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester, and Ara Zobayan.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 26, 2021
Kobe Bryant is regarded as one of the greatest players to ever grace the hardwood. But his death brought about more stories of what Bryant achieved off the court.
“Bean” was lauded as an outstanding father and advocate for young athletes around the world, including and especially female athletes. His off-court legacy seemed to transcend his many achievements as a basketball player, something Johnson alluded to on Tuesday morning.
Thank you God for allowing me enjoy Kobe Bryant for 20 years as a great basketball player, athlete, husband, father, philanthropist, mentor & teacher of the game to many men & women of all ages, best friend to Rob Pelinka, & brother to @jeaniebuss. pic.twitter.com/PgWY3wDzu6
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 26, 2021
Magic concluded by thanking Kobe Bryant for giving Lakers fans, including himself, so many indelible memories.
Kobe will always be my @Lakers brother for life. 💜💛 pic.twitter.com/7WC9x6h4Dl
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 26, 2021
Laker Nation we will always remember the brilliance, the legend, and the mamba mentality of #8/#24 💜💛 pic.twitter.com/vnXNOYZ3Jy
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 26, 2021
The entire Lakers fanbase and franchise have both made efforts to carry on Bryant's legacy. Really, that goes for the entire sporting community.
Bryant's pride in being a “Girl Dad” resonated with athletes around the world. Fans created memorials dedicated to Kobe and Gianna following the crash, including the inception of city-wide murals and adorning the outside of the Staples Center with memorabilia. Of course, LeBron James and the Lakers also honored Kobe Bryant by winning the NBA title this past fall.
The crash was indeed tragic. But some beauty emerged from the tragedy. Johnson chooses to remember the beauty and brilliance of Bryant, who will never be forgotten.
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