On Sunday, the sports world, and the world as a whole, lost one of the all-time greats. Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, and his 13-year old daughter Gianna, were among nine killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.
Just hours after news of the tragic accident, several NBA teams took the floor and paid tribute to Kobe in a variety of ways. This included a 24-second moment of silence before each game, and multiple teams accepting 24-second shot clock violations following tip-off. Atlanta Hawks All Star point guard Trae Young even donned Kobe's old No. 8 as he went off for 45 points, 14 assists and six rebounds.
Additionally, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban announced that the Mavs will retire No. 24 in Kobe's honor.
https://twitter.com/_/status/1221610980347666433
Though the Mavericks weren't in action on Sunday, Cuban issued the following statement regarding the tragedy.
"Kobe was an ambassador for our game, a decorated legend and a global icon. Above all, he was a loving and dedicated father. Kobe’s legacy transcends basketball, and our organization has decided that the number 24 will never again be worn by a Dallas Maverick.”
The Los Angeles Lakers have already retired Kobe's No. 8 and No. 24. Needless to say, fans across the country are encouraging the rest of the teams in the league to follow suit.
https://twitter.com/_/status/1221796193908535299
