PBA mourns death of 'dear friend' Kobe Bryant | Inquirer Sports

PBA mourns death of ‘dear friend’ Kobe Bryant

By: - Reporter / @MarkGiongcoINQ
/ 07:04 PM January 27, 2020

Kobe Bryant

FILE — Kobe Bryant smiles during the press conference for his Mamba Mentality Tour in Manila. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The PBA expressed its condolences to basketball great Kobe Bryant, who was killed in a helicopter crash in California on Sunday.

In a statement, the league mourned the passing of Bryant, who was a frequent visitor in the country throughout his storied career.

Article continues after this advertisement

“The PBA has lost a dear friend in Kobe Bryant who leaves behind fond memories of seven unforgettable visits to our country. Kobe was an exceptional basketball player but beyond his athletic skills, he was known for his caring heart and love of family,” the PBA said.

FEATURED STORIES

“His life was an inspiration and a lesson to everyone that with hard work, dedication and self-sacrifice, nothing is impossible. At 41, Kobe is gone too soon but his legacy will last forever. The PBA mourns the passage of a man who has touched the lives of millions. Rest in peace, Kobe.”

Bryant, a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and a two-time Olympic gold medalist, was also with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others when his private chopper went down and left no survivors.

Article continues after this advertisement

Bryant made his first Manila visit in 1998 and had his last in June 2016 just two months after scoring 60 points in his final NBA game.

He played 20 seasons in the NBA all with the Lakers.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: Death, Gianna Bryant, helicopter crash, Kobe Bryant, Manila, NBA, PBA, Philippines

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.