The death of Kobe Bryant spread throughout the community like wildfire. Sudden and unexpected, Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi’s deaths put a cloud over this past weekend. On his way to the Mamba Facility, Kobe Bryant, Gigi, and seven others died in a fatal helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.  

Bryant played for the Lakers for a grand total of 20 years, and he averaged 25 points per game. Known not only for his skill and athleticism, but for the work he put into the game–Kobe Bryant is, and will always be, a legend in the basketball community.

Senior Ryan McCord remarked on the subject, “I think it was a tragic loss for anyone who appreciates sports. It was apparent how widespread his influence was.” 

Bryant’s influence was great, and it became immensely more prominent in the aftermath of his death. 

Some examples are as follows: LeBron got a tattoo of Kobe, numerous NBA teams took 24 second, or 8 second calls, and tonight the Trail Blazers are honoring Kobe by giving everyone in the audience a shirt of Bryant’s number and name.

The tragedy of Kobe Bryant’s untimely death, and the hole it leaves in the lives of his family, friends and fans will stay for some time, but the legend of Kobe Bryant, the “Mamba,” will live on forever.