The world’s basketball body, the National Basketball Association (NBA) has reacted to the death of its five-time champion, Kobe Byrant.
Igbere TV had reported that Byrant was killed in a helicopter crash alongside his 13-year-old daughter, Gigi, on Sunday in Los Angeles.
He was aged 41.
In a statement sighted by Igbere TV on NBA’s verified Twitter handle, the body commiserated with family of the late basketball legend.
Describing Byrant as an extraordinary player in the history of basketball, the Basketball body said the late champion would be greatly missed.
The statement signed by NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, reads;
“The NBA family is devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna.
“For 20 seasons, Kobe showed us what is possible when remarkable talent blends with an absolute devotion to winning.
“He was one of the most extraordinary players in the history of our game with accomplishments that are legendary: five NBA championships, an NBA MVP award, 18 NBA All-Star selections, and two Olympic gold medals. But he will be remembered most for inspiring people around the world to pick up a basketball and compete to the very best of their ability.
“He was generous with the wisdom he acquired and saw it as his mission to share it with future generations of players, taking special delight in passing down his love of the game to Gianna.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Vanessa, and their family, the Lakers organization and the entire sports world.”
