Rob Gronkowski Delivers Heartfelt Message Following Kobe Bryant’s Death

Lakers legend Kobe Bryant lost his life in a tragic helicopter crash. The 41-year-old is recognized as one of the best basketball players to ever walk on Earth. He will be missed, and numerous athletes sent words of praise for the legend. Retired Patriots quarterback Rob Gronkowski is one of them. The death of Bryant shocked everyone, and the Los Angeles Lakers have already arrived in town. Gronk took to Instagram to deliver a message along with a few pics of him and the Black Mamba.

“What a sad day today. Kobe, you are a legend. I remember the time I was in the front row of a Celtics-Lakers game and you came by shouting my name. It put a huge smile on my face. Just an honor to be recognized from the greatest. You will be missed and always remembered as the Hero that you are. Sending my love and prayers to his family.”

Message for the superstar

Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna were among nine people in the helicopter that crashed in Calabasas, California. A baseball coach, John Altobelli, lost his life in the crash as well. The information was confirmed by Alex Villanueva, the Los Angeles County sheriff, during a news conference.

Authorities have yet to confirm the identity of the victims.

“It would be extremely disrespectful to understand your loved one has perished and you learn about it from TMZ,” Villanueva said. “That is just wholly inappropriate so we are not going to be going there. We are going to wait until the coroner does their job.”

The National Transportation Safety Board has sent a team to California on Sunday evening.

Daryl Osby, the Los Angeles County fire sheriff said the team had a hard time accessing the crash site. Firefighters hiked to the area.

Bryant was drafted in 1996, and he was named an All-Star in 18 of his 20 seasons in the league. He led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA Finals, and he was one of the most competitive athletes ever. Bryant was all-in when it comes to winning games, and he will be remembered as one of the most skilled players.