On Jan. 26, 2020 the world awoke to the tragic news that we had just lost a father, superstar and hero. The NBA legend Kobe Bryant was pronounced dead in Calabasas, California after his helicopter went down while on the way to play Fresno’s own travel team, “Lady Heat”.

The crash, which had no survivors, also took the life of Bryant’s 13-year-old daughter Gianna. Also killed in the crash were teammate to Gianna, Alyssa Altobelli, along with Altobelli’s mother Keri and father, Orange Coast College baseball coach John, Sarah and Payton Chester, basketball coach Christina Mauser and pilot Ara Zobayan.

This accident has touched the hearts of not only those in Los Angeles, California, or even America, but anyone around the world who was not only a fan of basketball, but all sports and anybody who enjoyed working towards their passion and dreams. 

Kobe Bryant was so much more than just a basketball player. He was a very unique talent who worked so hard you had no choice but to respect him and his work ethic. Even if you wanted to hate him for dropping 40 on your favorite player, you couldn’t because he was honestly that good and worked so hard to master his craft. 

From waking up at the crack of dawn, to getting in the gym and working out, to staying late after a game to shoot the shots that he missed. Fans loved and appreciated all of the hours Kobe put in for us. 

Basketball transitioned from a game into a lifestyle for millions of kids around the world. So whether it be playing basketball, taking a chance in a relationship, or even just throwing something away, remember to yell “Kobe!” because he’s the one that taught us no shot is a bad shot.

Kobe instilled the mentality that practice is a belief that is fundamental in every aspect of life. Having that relentless mindset is what led to the definition of “Mamba Mentality”, and Kobe showed his work ethic can still be the fuse to light the fire inside anyone to push harder than they did the day before and never settle for anything less than greatness. 

Kobe will be forever missed and fans will never forget the memories and jaw hanging moments he left us with on and off the court. The athletic community and many others displayed the impact Kobe, Gianna and the entire Bryant family had on their lives both on and off the court. 

Rest easy Mamba, and may your legacy continue for generations to come.