Utah Jazz Issue Statement After Kobe Bryant Passes Away
Jan 26, 2020, 5:01 PM | Updated: Jan 27, 2020, 1:16 am
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Utah Jazz and Miller family issued a statement after the passing of basketball legend and former Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant.
Bryant passed away in a helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26. Bryant’s daughter Gianna also passed away in the crash.
“We are shocked and saddened to learn about today’s tragedy involving Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna,” said the Miller family and the Utah Jazz. “From the time he entered the league, Kobe was a generational talent and one of the most competitive players in the game. Many athletes in the NBA today grew up emulating Kobe. The impact he has made on our sport will not be forgotten. We respect his dedication to the game and unmatched work ethic. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kobe’s wife, Vanessa, their family and those close to them.”
The Miller family and the Utah Jazz's statement on the passing of Kobe Bryant: pic.twitter.com/P4vsZMwoiO
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) January 26, 2020
Both current and former Jazz players shared their feelings on social media after hearing of Bryant and his daughter’s deaths.
I am at a loss for words..Kobe and Gianna you will never be forgotten. What a blessing to see your impact you have had in this world, Kobe. Prayers for the Bryant family. Rest In Peace, little brother and Gigi.. pic.twitter.com/x6EkJaARDD
— Karl Malone (@TheDeliverer_32) January 26, 2020
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The Jazz have matched up with the Los Angeles Lakers six times in franchise history.
Five of those playoff series featured Kobe Bryant.
Bryant played for the Lakers from 1996 until 2016. He was a five-time NBA champion and 18-time NBA All-Star.
After retiring from basketball, Bryant won an Oscar in 2018 for his animated short entitled “Dear Basketball”
Bryant was 41 years old.
