Kobe Bryant, Lakers legend, dies in helicopter crash at 41 years old

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Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash on Sunday morning in Calabasas, the NBA confirmed. The legendary Los Angeles Lakers star was 41 years old. 

Bryant's daughter, Gianna, 13, also tragically died in the crash. Authorities confirmed that all nine passengers aboard the helicopter died in the crash.

“The NBA family is devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "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.”

[RELATED: Warriors players react to Kobe dying in helicopter crash]

Bryant played 20 seasons for the Lakers. He was a five-time NBA champion, 18-time All-Star and is fourth on the all-time scoring list with 33,643 points. 

Bryant retired after the 2015-16 season. The future Hall of Famer scored 60 points in his final NBA game, a 101-96 Lakers win over the Utah Jazz at Staples Center.

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