The NBA and the Nigeria Basketball Federation have described late basketball player Kobe Bryant as an inspiration to several people globally.
Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, were among nine people killed in a helicopter crash in California on Sunday.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement, said, “The NBA family is devastated by the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna.
“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 organisation and the entire sports world.
Also, NBBF president, Musa Ahmadu-Kida, in a statement on Monday said the late basketball player was an inspiration to many kids in Nigeria.