The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
» Bryant’s career against the Hawks, plus reaction from the basketball world,
“We are stunned and profoundly saddened by the tragic news of the deaths of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. Today our NBA family lost one of its modern-day leaders and a champion who inspired so many of this generation’s current players.”
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“Tough day for not only basketball fans but for just for fans of Kobe period. It was tough going out there and playing today. We were all talking after we heard the news and some people were in the locker room asking why are there still games going on today because it’s tough.”
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“I’ve known Kobe since he was 15 years old and I was 16 playing AAU basketball. You go through 18 years of competing, talking junk, about to fight each other, congratulating each other, hating each other, enjoying each other in 18 years.”
— Hawks forward Vince Carter
“Our locker room’s shaken, the NBA’s shaken, the community is shaken, everyone is. Because at the end of the day, you respect what he’s been able to accomplish for so many years, in so many different ways.”
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“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.”
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“We have tragically lost one of the greatest sports figures of our time with the passing of Kobe Bryant. He was an incredibly gifted person who was universally respected. He was in constant pursuit of doing something special and there will never be a greater warrior in our sport.”
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“USA Basketball has lost a real champion. Women’s sports has lost one of their strongest advocates. Professional sports has lost a true legend who used his stature to make a difference in the world. Kobe viewed our women’s athletes as role models for his daughter Gigi, for whom we are also grieving. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Vanessa, the rest of his family and the families of those who also were lost today.”
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“The crash was a tragedy for multiple families. My heart goes out to (wife) Vanessa and the families that lost loved ones. Kobe was a chosen one — special in many ways to many people. Our relationship as coach/ player transcended the norm. He went beyond the veil.”
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