Legendary New York Mets outfielder Darryl Strawberry discusses the tragic death of basketball superstar Kobe Bryant.
On Sunday, we all learned of one of the more tragic stories in the world of sport. Legendary Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter accident in Calabasas, CA. Bryant’s 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, was also on the helicopter and didn’t survive.
Bryant leaves behind an incredibly meaningful legacy, as he’s one of the most gifted athletes the NBA has ever seen. Since his death, many have come together to honor said legacy. This includes one of Kobe’s idols in legendary New York Mets outfielder Darryl Strawberry.
“He would always tell me he was a Mets fan and that I was his favorite player. I was always honored when a great player like Kobe would say I was his favorite,” Strawberry said, per Mets Insider Blog. “So what happened Sunday naturally hits home for me.”
Bryant additionally leaves behind his wife Vanessa and three other daughters. The youngest of them all, Capri, was born in June of last year.
“I have kids like Kobe,” Strawberry said. “I am heartbroken for his wife and daughters. I just can’t imagine what they are feeling like today.”
Other individuals that have honored Kobe include Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James, who both shared heartfelt messages via social media. The night prior to his death, LeBron scored point No. 33,644 and ultimately passed Kobe for third on the all-time scoring list. James passed the legend in Bryant’s hometown Philadelphia.