'Mamba, you were taken away from us way too soon.' Shaquille O'Neal talks about his former teammate and friend, Kobe Byrant, while sharing a funny anecdote KobeFarewell
There didn't appear to be a dry eye in sight Monday as some 20,000 pack into Staples Center to mourn the loss of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. opened the service, singing "XO" backed with a large choir and orchestra. A tribute video was shown after, chronicling Bryant's impressive, history-making NBA career.
Among those who also spoke included Oregon Ducks basketball star and Bryant friend, Sabrina Ionescu. WNBA star Diana Taurasi, aka the White Mamba, also spoke of her friend and how much he inspired her to be a great athlete and person. Rob Pelinka, Lakers executive and Bryant's best friend, said Kobe was texting him while on the helicopter that fateful day, asking for information to help a child who was looking for an internship, nothing his last human act was selflessness.
Jordan spoke during the memorial and had a hard time holding back the tears. He said he loved Bryant and the two were close. He noted the Bryant would call him all the time when he got into the NBA because he wanted every pointer and tip about the game that he could get. "When Kobe Bryant died, a piece of me died," he said. "Please, rest in peace, little brother."
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