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Kobe Bryant, the former Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard and five-time NBA champion, died Sunday in a helicopter crash at the age of 41. Beyond the rings and his prolific scoring (fourth-highest career points total in league history), the Black Mamba transcended basketball, influencing an entire generation of athletes with his relentless competitiveness.
That includes Marlins players who grew up during the late 1990s and 2000s.
Jesús Aguilar, Eddy Alvarez, Lewis Brinson, Garrett Cooper, Joe Dunand, Matt Kemp, Nasim Nuñez, Miguel Rojas and Sterling Sharp were among those who immediately reacted on social media to Bryant’s passing.
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This doesn’t feel real. Growing up he was the one athlete I truly idolized. Life is way too short. Rest In Peace Kobe Bean Bryant. #BlackMamba
— Garrett Cooper (@CoopaLoop1) January 26, 2020
Speechless. Rest easy 24. #RipKobe
— Matt Kemp (@TheRealMattKemp) January 26, 2020
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Thank you Kobe. For everything. pic.twitter.com/YLZimbMS5u
— Sean Reynolds (@sean___reynolds) January 27, 2020
I’m in shock !!! Kobe ur legacy will live forever. RIP Idol
— Miguel Rojas (@MRojasOfficial) January 26, 2020
RIP Mamba... prayers go out to his family and especially his daughters! So so sad. This one hurts pic.twitter.com/EpYERsXDdD
— Sterling Sharp (@DatDude_Ster42) January 26, 2020
On behalf of the Fish Stripes staff, my condolences to Bryant’s family and loved ones. Truly devastating.