Sixers Players, Organization React to the Passing of Kobe Bryant

It was a sad day as the sports world learned that NBA legend Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash just outside Los Angeles on Sunday morning.

Bryant was traveling with eight others, including the pilot, along with his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, when the private helicopter went down about 30 miles outside of Los Angles in Calabasas, Calif.

Bryant, 41, spent his entire career with the Lakers after being drafted 13th overall in 1996 out of Lower Merion High School outside of Philadelphia.  He ended this career with five NBA championships, including the 2001 Finals against Allen Iverson and the Sixers. In that series, he averaged 24.6 points 7.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game.

During his 20 years career with the Lakers, he earned 18 All-Star selections, a league and two Finals MVP trophies.

On Saturday night, Bryant was passed in Philadelphia by current Lakers star, LeBron James on the NBA's all-time scoring list. In the third quarter, LeBron scored and passed Bryant on the all-time scoring list, moving him to the No. 4 spot at the time of his passing. with 33,643 career points.

Sixers Players, and the organization shared their condolences on social media.

STATEMENT FROM THE PHILADELPHIA 76ERS:

The Philadelphia 76ers organization mourns the losses of NBA icon Kobe Bryant, his daughter, Gianna, and all of who passed away tragically today in an accident in California.

Bryant, one of the most decorated players in NBA history and a global ambassador for the game, made an everlasting mark on our league. His determination, passion to win and fierce competitiveness fueled the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships and inspired millions of people around the world.

Bryant’s journey to icon status in the world of basketball included deep ties to the Philadelphia region, where he starred at Lower Merion High School from 1992-96. As he honed his craft in Philadelphia, Bryant established a reputation as a player with once-in-a-lifetime poise, grit, heart and an unwavering love of the game.

While his imprint on the game of basketball will be etched in the history books forever, Bryant will also be remembered for his love of his family, commitment to community through his philanthropic work, and for being an innovative leader in business.

The 76ers organization sends its sincerest condolences to Vanessa Bryant and the Bryant family during this incredibly difficult time. We also send our condolences to Jeanie Buss, the Los Angeles Lakers organization and Kobe Bryant fans everywhere.