The sports world came together to commemorate the lives of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, as they observe the five-year anniversary of their heartbreaking loss.
Five years ago, the world lost a legend.
Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others sadly passed away in a helicopter crash on their way to Mamba Sports Academy on January 26, 2020 (US time). The devastating news resonated deeply, impacting the basketball community and the world at large.
On the fifth anniversary of their passing, the legacy of Kobe and Gianna remains a powerful source of inspiration.
The basketball world flooded social media with tributes, honoring their incredible bond, their love for the game, and the unforgettable impact they left behind.
The Lakers posted a photo of Bryant sitting courtside at a game, with his arm around Gianna.
Kobe's former Team USA teammate, Carmelo Anthony, shared a heartfelt post with a cherished photo of the two.
“Sometimes you never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory,” he wrote on X.
The tribute highlights the strong bond and mutual respect between Anthony and Bryant, both on and off the court, as they shared unforgettable moments alongside teammates LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and the rest of the great Team USA in their Olympic gold medal victories in 2008 and 2012.
The NBA also honored Kobe’s memory, posting a powerful portrait of the legend and a statement from Commissioner Adam Silver, a reminder of Kobe’s enduring inspiration.
“Kobe Bryant continues to serve as an inspiration to aspiring and current NBA and WNBA players, young athletes playing at all levels, and those who are motivated solely by his relentless pursuit of excellence.”
The WNBA also paid tribute to Gianna and her teammates, Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, who tragically passed away in the crash.
Their memory lives on through the league, with the three girls honored as honorary draftees in 2020.
Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe’s former Lakers teammate, posted a touching message as well.
“Miss you lil bro & miss you too Gigi #missyall #neverforgotton,” as he shared personal memories. Their bond, forged through three championship titles together, will always be remembered.
Even the Philippine basketball community joined in, with PBA courtside reporter Apple David sharing a moment next to Kobe’s statue in Los Angeles, while former PBA star Jimmy Alapag reminisced about the time Kobe visited Manila in 2016, taking a picture with his daughter and son.
While Kobe and Gianna’s passing left a void, the love and passion they brought to the game of basketball will continue to inspire generations to come.
The memories of that fateful day and those lost will forever remain, as the Mamba legacy continues to inspire greatness, with Kobe's spirit living on.