Five years ago, the world stood still as news quickly traveled around the world about the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant. On January 26th, 2020, a helicopter crash claimed the lives of the NBA legend, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, and seven other individuals. As we mark the 5th anniversary of the unfortunate event, those closest to the basketball icon are opening up about the emotional toll they’re still carrying to this day.
On Saturday, CNN released a new documentary titled “Kobe: The Making Of A Legend,” where friends, colleagues, and family reflected on the impact of Bryant’s life and the pain that continues to linger following his untimely death. His assistant, Elissa Grabow, recounted the moment she was made aware of the news and reached out to his close friend, Tracy McGrady.
“I went numb,” she shared. “He was crying. He said, ‘I can’t talk.’” McGrady added feeling intense pain after learning of Kobe’s death, “I cried all day, all night. I couldn’t believe it… not Kob… not Kobe.”
Trace the story of one of the greatest players of all time, from his childhood in Italy to athletic superstardom. "Kobe: The Making of a Legend" three-part series premieres Saturday at 9p ET/PT on CNN. pic.twitter.com/YxCnVpbZiB
— CNN Original Series (@CNNOriginals) January 22, 2025
Additionally, sports journalist Scoop Jackson also explained how difficult it was to break the news to his children since they had a special relationship with Bryant.
“Kobe had a very, very, very special relationship with my kids,” Jackson explained. “The thing that got me, that was hardest for me, was telling them. Yeah, I’ve done some hard sh*t in my life, but that was one of the most difficult ones.”
As we reflect on Kobe’s enduring legacy, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently issued a heartfelt message saying, “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. Our thoughts today are with Vanessa and the Bryant family as we remember Kobe and their daughter, Gianna, with whom he shared a special bond around a profound love of the game of basketball.”
Nonetheless, Bryant’s passing was a major hit to the sports world and beyond. At the time of his death, Bryant was just four years into retirement, leaving behind an impressive legacy that included five NBA championships that spanned over his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
One of the most memorable things about Bryant was his relentless work ethic which was often referred to as “Mamba Mentality” that inspired many individuals around the world. But, as we enter the fifth year without the NBA legend, let’s celebrate and remember the lasting impact he has left on the world and within the sports industry.
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