President Donald Trump responded to the tragic news of NBA legend Kobe Bryant's death in a helicopter crash on Sunday morning in Calabasas:
Reports are that basketball great Kobe Bryant and three others have been killed in a helicopter crash in California. That is terrible news!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 26, 2020
Kobe Bryant's death — as well as the passing of his daughter Gianna — has resonated with figures far beyond sports, President Trump included.
In many ways, Kobe transcended sports. While he was known for being one of the best basketball players on the planet, he was an international figure for things such as his love of culture and love of soccer. He befriended other sports stars such as Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain Football Club and was a marvel at international tournaments, notably the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.
Bryant was one of the most ruthless competitors to ever grace the hardwood, and yet he was totally comfortable transitioning to a role as a full-time father and mentor for his daughters.
Kobe founded Granity Studios media company in retirement. He won an Oscar for his animated short, “Dear Basketball.” He has authored children's novels that have honored peers and fellow athletes like Serena Williams, and even spoke in Slovenian to Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic.
Chiney Ogwumike of the Los Angeles Sparks appeared on “SportsCenter” discussing his role as an advocate for the women's game, some of which stemmed from watching and coaching Gianna.
Shortly after he passed Bryant on the all-time scoring list, current Lakers superstar LeBron James spoke about the immense impact The Black Mamba had on him as a player and, more importantly, as a man.
Indeed, Kobe Bryant was bigger than basketball. His legacy will be remembered as such.
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