Kobe Bryant’s impact on the game of basketball and the people who have a passion for it has been incalculable, and his sudden death at 41 following a helicopter crash that killed his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others near Los Angeles Sunday put into perspective just how much Bryant mattered to those who have been Ivy League hoopsters.
Kobe taught me how it was ok not to fit in. It was ok to be sad, to be alone. It was ok to be different. Just keep working. Channel those emotions into the work. Into a singular pursuit of being great. Though we never met, I couldn’t have done life without him. RIP Kobe and Gigi
— RIP KOBE and GIGI (@chrisegi15) January 26, 2020
Thank you isn’t enough. You’re my hero, Kobe Bryant, and a legend to this world.
— Seth 💤 (@seth_towns17) January 26, 2020
On repeat 🔄 https://t.co/P8ibb59m2w
— Devin Cannady (@devin_cannady3) January 27, 2020
Hold yourself to a higher standard, challenge the people around you to be better, and Work work work! Thank you @kobebryant 😔🙏🏽🕊
— D.Foreman (@DarnellForeman4) January 26, 2020
Before a 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers in which he established himself as one of the most prolific scorers, clutch players and fiercest competitors in the history of the NBA, Bryant was a star at Lower Merion High School in the Philadelphia suburb of Ardmore, where standout Columbia first-year Jack Forrest also attended.
Jack Forrest commits to Columbia University
Jack enjoys a moment with NBA legend Kobe Bryant#KobeBryant pic.twitter.com/6MSxlyb2df
— JerseyShoreWarriors (@JSWarriors) November 13, 2018
Bryant played at the Palestra while still in high school.
The story of basketball cannot be told without Kobe Bryant.
His Philadelphia roots shined throughout his life and we’re honored that he graced The Palestra hardwood during his time playing for Lower Merion. Our hearts go out to his family, loved ones, and all those involved. pic.twitter.com/rWwkyB6D7G
— Penn Quakers (@pennathletics) January 26, 2020
Whenever I give a Palestra tour, the photo we have of Kobe on the concourse wall is always a highlight. Awful news today. https://t.co/fz7oXVhAXE
— Mike Mahoney (@MMPennAC) January 27, 2020
May Bryant and all those who perished with him rest in peace, and may their families find solace after such an unthinkable tragedy.