Kobe Bryant death anniversary: NBA community fondly remembers legend 1 year after tragedy

On January 26, 2020, world lost Kobe Bryant to a devastating helicopter crash. A year later, NBA community is still coming to terms with loss. While league is t going out of ir way to commemorate Kobe Bryant death anniversary, fans and players are voicing ir thoughts on social media. Tributes have been puring in for a year, everyone looking at unique ways to hour Los Angeles Lakers legend. 

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While many NBA stars refused to speak about Bryant's death, some posted on social media sites to share ir sense of loss with fans. "Unforgettable moments," wrote Giannis Antetokounmpo, sharing moments he shared with Black Mamba throughout years. "Long live Mamba," wrote retired NBA icon Allen Iverson, ding that he missed his bror. 

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"I miss you, herma … t a day goes by that you are t present in what I do," wrote Bryant's friend and Gianna's godfar Pau Gasol. He shared an emotional letter he wrote with fans, ding photos of himself with Bryant and Gianna. 

"Photos, videos, very special moments keep being shared by countless people that have mired you and loved you in ir own way, reminding me how incredibly lucky I have been to share some of those moments with you," he continued, ding that he hopes him and Gianna and smiling down on everyone from above. 

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What was Lakers Kobe tribute?

As per reports, Lakers are still reeling from Bryant's loss, and decided against commemorating his death anniversary this week.  While team's subtle efforts will continue, y will t emphasise on ir loss. organization, per reports, did t plan to make it more difficult than it has been – t wanting to draw attention to trdy. 

Or teams have followed suit, most of m opting for simple social media tributes. 

Jason Dumas of KRON4 News also revealed that Bryant's family might be behind lack of elaborate tributes for five-time NBA champion. As per reports, Bryant's family asked league to refrain from elaborate tributes – a request league will follow through. 

Vanessa Bryant herself posted on Instagram about same, asking media outlets to refrain from using crash photos. 

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(Im credits: Vanessa Bryant Instagram)