LOS ANGELES (AFP) – How people on Twitter and Instagram reacted to the death of NBA superstar Kobe Bryant on Sunday:
“Kobe Bryant, despite being one of the truly great basketball players of all time, was just getting started in life. He loved his family so much, and had such strong passion for the future. The loss of his beautiful daughter, Gianna, makes this moment even more devastating….”
– US President Donald Trump
“Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act.”
– Former US President Barack Obama
“Kobe Bryant was a giant who inspired, amazed, and thrilled people everywhere with his incomparable skill on the court – and awed us with his intellect and humility as a father, husband, creative genius, and ambassador for the game he loved.”
– Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti
“There’s no words to express the pain Im going through with this tragedy of loosing my niece Gigi & my brother @kobebryant I love u and u will be missed. My condolences goes out to the Bryant family and the families of the other passengers on board. IM SICK RIGHT NOW”
– Bryant’s former Lakers teammate Shaquille O’Neal
“Jeannine & I are absolutely shocked to hear of the loss of one of my favorite people & one of the best basketball minds in the history of the game! Our hearts & prayers to Vanessa & his girls. @kobebryant you were my biggest fan, but I was yours”
– Bill Russell, five-time NBA Most Valuable Player, 11-time NBA champion with the Boston Celtics
“Most people will remember Kobe as the magnificent athlete who inspired a whole generation of basketball players. But I will always remember him as a man who was much more than an athlete.”
–Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, six-time NBA champion and league’s all-time scoring leader
”Nooooooooooo God please No!”
– Three-time NBA champion Dwyane Wade
”Heart going out to the Bryant family right now. RIP Kobe Bryant.”
– US women’s footballer and World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe
“Like everyone, I’m stunned and saddened to hear the horrific news about Kobe Bryant. Thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this terribly sad time #RIPKobeBryant.”
– Australian cricket legend Shane Warne
“We miss you already Kobe.”
– NFL Super Bowl winner Tom Brady
”@kobebryant Gone much too soon, how devastating to hear of his passing, he gave joy to so many for so long – deep condolences to his family, his friends, his Laker family. RIP Kobe… #lifeistooshort.”
- “I’m heartbroken by this news, you were a true legend, and friend. Rest In Peace @kobebryant, my thoughts and prayers to his wife and kids.”
–French NBA great Tony Parker
