Basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter were among the nine people killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday. The news of their untimely death came as a shock to his fans in India who took to social media to express their grief. Among them were many celebrities paying tribute to the 18-time NBA All-Star.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas uploaded a photo of Kobe with his daughter on Instagram and wrote, “Kobe Bryant was my first real introduction to the NBA. I was 13 living in Queens NYC, the same age as his sweet little girl, Gianna. He ignited my love for the sport, competition, and striving for excellence. He inspired an entire generation. His legacy is so much bigger than basketball. This heartbreaking accident also took the life of his young daughter, Gianna. I’m shook and so saddened. My heart goes out to Vanessa, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri Bryant. You are in my thoughts. Also sending my condolences to the loved ones of the other family and pilot in the accident. Being at tonight’s Grammys ceremony in his home at the Staples Center is going to be surreal. #RIP #KobeBryant #RIPMamba.”. The actress paid a tribute to the champion by flaunting his jersey number ‘24’ on her nails. Indian skipper Virat Kohli who recalled his childhood memories of “watching this magician doing things on the court” wrote, “Absolutely devas tated to hear this news today. So many childhood memories of waking up early and watching this magician doing things on the court that I would be mesmerized by. Life is so unpredictable and fickle. His daughter Gianna passed away too in the crash. I am absolutely heartbroken. Rest in peace. Strength and condolences to the family. (sic)”
