The sports world was rocked on Sunday when news of a helicopter crash in in Calabasas, California suddenly turned into news that National Basketball Association legend Kobe Bryant had been killed in that crash. Kobe was a global figure in the world of professional sports and was truly an example of an athlete who's influence reached far beyond the limits of his sport, in this case basketball.
The news only got worse from there however as we would later learn that Bryant's young daughter, 13 year old Gianna Bryant, had been accompanying him on the helicopter and was also killed in the very same crash that claimed her father's life. We now know that in total 9 people have lost their lives as a result of this crash with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's office reporting that a manifest showing 8 passengers and 1 pilot was obtained by law enforcement, while also confirming that there were no survivors in the aftermath of this terrible tragedy.
Given Kobe's tremendous reach it should come as no surprise that he impacted the lives of many of today's modern day players in the National Hockey League, many of whom took to social media on Sunday to express their grief at this tragic loss of life.
"Janet and I have no words to describe our shock and sadness on the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant today," wrote NHL legend Wayne Gretzky. "Praying for him and his family."
"I’ve always wanted to be like you," wrote Philadelphia Flyers captain Claude Giroux. "Not only as a player but also as a person. You represent everything that is great about sports."
"Shocked and in complete disbelief... A father, husband, legend, and idol gone way too soon," wrote New Jersey Devils' defenseman P.K. Subban. "Thank you for the time, the lessons, and 20 years of greatness."
"Father, husband, legend... a true icon in every sense of the word," wrote Montreal Canadiens forward Max Domi. "My heart aches for the family and friends of Kobe and Gigi. Such a terrible tragedy. Thoughts and prayers are with them and the families of the three other victims. Sad day."
"My deepest condolences to the Bryant family," wrote Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner. "RIP Kobe and daughter Gianna."
"I always wanted to be like you," wrote Colorado Avalanche forward Nazem Kadri. "Praying for you and your family through these tough times. RIP mamba."
The NHLPA released a statement on behalf of all the players as well.
All members of the NHLPA are extremely saddened by the loss of one of the world’s all-time great athletes.
