The world is mourning the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant, who perished in a helicopter accident Sunday that also took the lives of his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven other people.
Bulls legend Michael Jordan made a statement on the news. From Estee Portnoy, Jordan's manager/spokeswoman:
I am in shock over the tragic news of Kobe's and Gianna's passing. Words can't describe the pain I'm feeling. I loved Kobe — he was like a little brother to me. We used to talk often, and I will miss those conversations very much. He was a fierce competitor, one of the greats of the game and a creative force. Kobe was also an amazing dad who loved his family deeply — and took great pride in his daughter's love for the game of basketball. Yvette joins me in sending my deepest condolences to Vanessa, the Lakers organization and basketball fans around the world.
Bryant is survived by his wife, Vanessa, with whom he had four daughters. He was 41 years old.
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