I’ll give my all to continue Kobe’s legacy, vows heartbroken LeBron
LOS Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has posted an emotional tribute to Kobe Bryant following the NBA veteran’s death on Sunday.
James took to Instagram to express his feelings after Bryant, daughter Gianna and seven others died in a helicopter crash in the Los Angeles hills.
Bryant was a five-time NBA champion who played for the Lakers throughout his 20-year career.
“I’m not ready but here I go. I’m sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had,” James wrote.
“I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA.
Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!!
“Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation.
“Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!!”
Bryant’s final post on Twitter before his death was a message to James, saying: “Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother.”
The Lakers’ game against city rivals the Clippers was postponed as a mark of respect following the death of Bryant and his daughter. The fixture will now take place at a later date.
The news of Bryant’s death sparked an outpouring of grief around the world as tributes flooded in, with former England football captain David Beckham among those to pay their respects.
Beckham, who played for the
LA Galaxy from 2007-12, posted on Instagram: “It’s taken me hours to work out what to write and still my words won’t ever be enough to describe how I am feeling after the tragic loss of Kobe.
“This was one special athlete, husband, father and friend. Having to write these words is hard enough but also knowing we have lost an amazing human being and his beautiful and talented daughter Gianna is heartbreaking.
“He was determined to inspire the next generation of boys and girls to embrace the sport that he loved. His legacy will live on.”
Close relationship: LeBron James (left) and Kobe Bryant, who were like brothers, battle on the court in 2015