LOS ANDELES, California – Legendary NBA player Kobe Bryant has died in a California helicopter crash, a report said Sunday.
Bryant, 41, was among at least four people traveling in his private helicopter over Calabasas when a fire broke out, sending the chopper spiraling from the sky, according to TMZ Sports.
There were no survivors, and the cause of the crash is under investigation, according to TMZ. Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, was not among those aboard the chopper, according to the report.
Bryant starred for two decades with the Los Angeles Lakers, winning five championships and making 18 All-Star Games before retiring after the 2016 season.
‘Bryant used a helicopter to travel for years dating back to when he played for the Lakers. He was known for commuting from Newport Beach, CA to the STAPLES Center in DTLA in his Sikorsky S-76 chopper.’
Bryant survived by his wife Vanessa, and daughters — Natalia and Bianca and their newborn Capri.
“The NBA family is devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna.
“For 20 seasons, Kobe showed us what is possible when remarkable talent blends with an absolute devotion to winning. He was one of the most extraordinary players in the history of our game with accomplishments that are legendary: five NBA championships, an NBA MVP award, 18 NBA All-Star selections, and two Olympic gold medals. But he will be remembered most for inspiring people around the world to pick up a basketball and compete to the very best of their ability. He was generous with the wisdom he acquired and saw it as his mission to share it with future generations of players, taking special delight in passing down his love of the game to Gianna.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Vanessa, and their family, the Lakers organization and the entire sports world.” ¬ NBA commissioner Adam Silver.