Kobe Bryant, one of the all-time great players in NBA history who won five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, died in a helicopter crash Sunday in Calabasas, California. He was 41.
TMZ first reported the news that Bryant was aboard a helicopter that crashed in Los Angeles County on Sunday. Variety magazine and the local ABC affiliate soon confirmed that Bryant was aboard.
The LA County Sheriff’s department first tweeted that five people were on board the helicopter, and none survived. Later, it was confirmed that nine people were on board and died.
Bryant won two Finals MVPs, was an All-Star 18 times and named to the All-NBA team 11 times.
On Saturday night, LeBron James passed Bryant in career points scored to move into third place all-time. Bryant’s last tweet was to congratulate James:
Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother 💪🏾 #33644
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) January 26, 2020
This post will be updated.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
• Adam Zielonka can be reached at azielonka@washingtontimes.com.
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