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Monday Quickies: Kobe Bryant Edition

Ten years from now, we’ll all remember where we were when we heard the news of Kobe Bryant’s passing.

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Golden State Warriors v Los Angeles Lakers Photo by Harry How/Getty Images

On Sunday, the entire world lost an icon. All-time NBA great Kobe Bryant reportedly passed away during the event of a helicopter crash in Calabasas, CA Sunday morning. He was 41 years old.

Per additional reports, Bryant’s 13-year old daughter Gianna also passed away in the crash. Bryant was reportedly traveling with his daughter and other passengers when the helicopter crashed in Calabasas.

Sunday started as just a normal day, quickly turning into an afternoon/evening full of sorrow and disbelief. Support and love for Bryant, his family and his basketball legacy spilled across social media.

While Bryant’s career was truly one of the best the National Basketball Association has ever seen, he was so much more than just a basketball player. Bryant’s time in the NBA was spent entirely with the Los Angeles Lakers and his 20 seasons truly speak for themself. He started as the youngest player to ever debut in a NBA game and ended with a 60-point performance at Staples Center with five championship rings to go in-between.

We will all remember Bryant for his fadeaway jump-shots, competitive nature and tireless desire to best his opponent. But, again, Bryant was so much more than just a basketball player. The legend was a father, husband and amazing human being. He loved being a dad and a mentor. Bryant was a global icon, an inspiration and one of our heroes.

Life after being the face of the NBA was one Bryant welcomed with open arms. While the Lakers legend remained in touch with the league, his primary focus had shifted towards assisting Gianna in chasing her dream to become a WNBA player. Bryant also had begun to work with other NBA stars as well as youth basketball players on a mission to make an impact on the future of basketball, a game Bryant truly loved.

Let’s remember Kobe Bryant for more than just his profound success on the hardwood. Let’s remember Kobe Bryant for the exceptional father, husband, mentor, friend and icon he was to so many people.

Please send your prayers to his wife, Vanessa, and his other children.

May the Mamba, and his daughter Gianna, rest in peace.

Tweet of the Day

Kobe and Shaq are considered the most unstoppable duo in NBA history. Their bond was truly special.

Quickies

Teams pay tribute to late Kobe Bryant with 24-second and 8-second violations - USA Today

Kobe Bryant was loved by so, so many of his peers.

Dallas Mavericks to retire No. 24 in honor of Kobe Bryant - USA Today

One of Bryant’s lifetime opponents showed one of the greatest respects Sunday evening.

Tiger Woods calls Kobe Bryant’s death ‘one of the most shocking, tragic days’ - ESPN

Bryant will always be compared to the greatest of their respective sports.

Pro Bowl: Allen and Smith perform, pay tribute to Kobe Bryant - Kentucky Sports Radio

Former Wildcats Josh Allen and Za’Darius Smith wrecked havoc during the Pro Bowl.

FILM REVIEW: Kentucky and Texas Tech go to the wire - Cats Illustrated

Breaking down what exactly we saw throughout Kentucky’s close win on Saturday night.