Sunday saw the tragic death of NBA legend Kobe Bryant at the age of 41.
Canadian soccer players and clubs reacted to the news just as many did; with shock, sadness, and appreciation for the five-time NBA Champion, who was killed in a helicopter crash in the Los Angeles area.
Byant’s 13-year-old daughter Gianna was also killed in the crash, alongside seven others.
Pacific FC winger Ben Fisk called Bryant an “inspiration to myself and countless other young athletes.”
There was an emotional connection between Forge FC attacker Chris Nanco and Mamba, specifically to the basketball legend’s iconic #24 number. Same goes for CPLers Nico Pasquotti, Elijah Adekugbe and other Canadian soccer notables listed below:
Forever an inspiration to myself and countless other young athletes. My love goes out to all of the families affected today ❤️ #Kobe #MambaForever pic.twitter.com/Gzpzy1fk1i
— Ben Fisk (@benfisk) January 26, 2020
I remember as a kid picking #8 as my soccer jersey number because I watched Kobe more than soccer. ?? #MambaMemory #MambaMentalityForever pic.twitter.com/h2DpILjpgV
— Chris Nanco (@ChrisNanco) January 27, 2020
I have no words to express my feelings. Kobe was my idol growing up! He was taken way too soon.. RIP https://t.co/V0C77oiyvl
— Nico Pasquotti (@nicopasquotti) January 26, 2020
Wow .. RIP Kobe ? pic.twitter.com/1RCGTNgfR9
— Samuel Piette (@samuelpiette) January 26, 2020
#RIPKobe. The GOAT ?
Condolences to all those affected by everyone who died on the tragic helicopter crash. pic.twitter.com/bdEzxOO2bs
— FC Edmonton (@FCEdmontonNow) January 26, 2020
Kobe Bryant you’re an angel. RIP to you legend. So kind and had time for everyone. The epitome of class and hard work. An Idol. Prayers to his family. ??
— Jozy Altidore (@JozyAltidore) January 26, 2020
RIP Kobe???? I still can’t believe it.. we’ve lost a legend.
— Marcus Haber (@MarcusHaberPFC) January 26, 2020
Kobe RIP ❤️ #KobeBryant
— Tyson Farago (@Tysonjfarago) January 26, 2020
Forever great. Rest In Peace Kobe. pic.twitter.com/COQasCpwrH
— Elijah Adekugbe (@elijahadekugbe) January 26, 2020
Another great has moved on and left nothing but legendary moments in sports. Condolences to all family and Friends. This is devastating news ??
Rest well @kobebryant
Condolences all @lakers… https://t.co/oyX1Nxr6sU— DERO (@dwaynederosario) January 26, 2020