The Washington Wizards had to play the Atlanta Hawks on the road Sunday evening. For the players and coaches involved, it’s not going to be just another game, as the basketball world continues to process the tragic death of Kobe Bryant.
Bryant died in a helicopter crash in California on Sunday morning, along with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna.
The Wizards’ two star players, John Wall and Bradley Beal, shared their feelings via Twitter shortly after news of Bryant’s death first broke.
💔🖤
— John Wall (@JohnWall) January 26, 2020
God, we ALL need you!
— Bradley Beal (@RealDealBeal23) January 26, 2020
Before the Wizards’ game in Atlanta, coach Scott Brooks spoke to reporters about Bryant’s legacy, calling him “one of the great sports legends of any sport” and fighting through tears as he spoke.
“My daughter went to the same school as his kids went to,” Brooks said. “I don’t live too far from him. I spent time with him in the offseason from time to time. Words can’t describe, and it doesn’t do any justice, of who he is and how he impacted the sports world.”
“It’s a tough day for everybody. He’s obviously one of the great sports legends.”
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) January 26, 2020
- Coach Brooks on the passing of Kobe Bryant pic.twitter.com/UdGeXRoPWS
Scott Brooks: “My generation, it was Dr. J. And then maybe Michael Jordan was a little bit after. The generation now is Kobe. He’s exactly what everybody dreamed about playing (against) on the playground.”
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) January 26, 2020
Wizards owner Ted Leonsis released the following statement:
“I am devastated to hear the news today on the passing of NBA legend Kobe Bryant. – We have not only lost one of the greatest all-time basketball players in NBA history, we’ve also lost a tremendous human being – The G.O.A.T. – He was a loving husband, devoted father and caring son – He was a great ambassador for the game of basketball, an influential figure throughout the business world, as well as an active participant in his community – He’s impacted the lives of so many both on-and-off the court. His legacy will continue to live on through the many people he touched and influenced throughout his life of basketball and beyond. May he rest in peace.”
The Hawks held a moment of silence before the Wizards’ game this evening, a report said.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
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