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Published 15:51 IST, January 30th 2020

Nets honour Kobe Bryant and Gianna, Kyrie Irving can't stop trying during tribute

Kobe Bryant tribute: Before the Detroit Pistons vs Brooklyn Nets game on Wednesday night (Thursday morning IST) by leaving two seats empty for the two of them.

Reported by: Devika Pawar
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NBA team Brooklyn Nets paid their respects to Kobe Bryant and Gianna after their tragic deaths in a helicopter crash. Bryant, his daughter Gianna and seven others were travelling to one on Gianna’s basketball game when the helicopter crashed. The world poured in with tributes and support for Kobe Bryant’s family, honouring the victims of the crash.

Also read | Kobe Bryant tribute: Alicia Keys talks about her tribute to late NBA legend Kobe Bryant

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Kobe Bryant death: Nets honour Kobe Bryant and Gianna

Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant attended a Brooklyn Nets game in November 2019. To honour their memory, Brooklyn Nets left the seats empty that they had occupied. In November, Bryant and Gianna were captured on video where Kobe Bryant was seen breaking down in front of his daughter. The Barclays Center video board also displayed Bryant's No.8 and 24 jerseys in purple and gold to pay further tribute to the late superstar.

Also read | Kobe Bryant tribute: The NBA tributes continue for the Black Mama

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Kobe Bryant death: Kyrie Irving struggled to hold back his tears before the Pistons vs Nets game

Kyrie Irving, who was a close friend on Kobe Bryant, was close to tears when the Nets paid their tribute to Gianna and Bryant. Kyrie Irving considered the five-time NBA champion a mentor for a large part of his career. After hearing the news, Irving had pulled out of the Nets vs Knicks game and left the Madison Square Garden. Nets coach Kenny Atkinson said that Kyrie Irving was tremendously affected by Kobe Bryant’s death.

Also read | Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant's heartwarming love story that will overwhelm fans

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Kobe Bryant and Gianna share touching moment during Nuggets vs Lakers game

Kobe Bryant death: Kobe and Gianna Bryant shared their love for basketball

Gianna Bryant, who was called 'Gigi', was also a talented basketball player. She played for her high school's basketball team and was often spotted while practising. While on a popular talk show, Kobe Bryant had revealed that Gianna wanted to develop her own playing style. Gianna Bryant also wanted to play as a part of the University of Connecticut team, which has an elite women's program. Kobe Bryant even took Gianna to NBA games, where he was once seen breaking down the game to her.  

Also read | Kobe Bryant death: NBA legend's former classmate shares fond high school memories

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11:58 IST, January 30th 2020