On a seemingly normal Sunday morning, the world would be rocked with unbearable news. Former Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, were tragically killed in a helicopter crash, along with seven others, in California Sunday morning. It didn’t seem real. Kobe was viewed by many as this untouchable sports icon. Because of his legacy, kids have been yelling “Kobe!” while tossing trash away for years. He was the textbook definition of an American star. All of this surfacing at once just didn’t seem possible. How could this happen? Why Kobe?
The following piece is a collaboration of multiple writers telling their stories of learning of the tragedy.
“Names. Names are iconic and are what distinguishes you from everyone else around you. Other names are so distant, that people think of one person when the name is brought up. Especially in sports, where these superstars become idols and so many others look up to you. Among those names, near the top, is Kobe. It’s a name that induces chills and flashes of excitement and explosiveness. That’s his on the court impact. Off the court, he sends shock waves. Never has there been such an out-pour of sympathy and sorrow in a society than what we’ve witnessed over the past 36 hours. No matter what sport one follows, everyone knows of Kobe. Just Saturday, LeBron had passed Kobe in points and Kobe’s last tweet congratulated LeBron for the accomplishment. That’s the Kobe persona we all know and love. There’s so much to take with a real-life superhero passing away. However, there’s a way we can take “Mamba Mentality” and making it a lifestyle: the lifestyle of caring for others in times of struggle and a need for perseverance. It’s the lifestyle of attacking everyday like it is your absolute last. And finally, to love one another, because whether we know it or not, it may be the last time you ever see them.”
“My side of this catastrophe takes a bit of an outsider perspective. I’ve been captivated by sports my entire life, but the NBA was never necessarily my cup of tea. However, my love of college basketball was still impacted by Kobe. He not only impacted the game of basketball, but all sports. Mamba mentality spills over into everyday life, it’s what drives many to wake up in the morning. Kobe transcended basketball. He transcended sports. He was not merely an athlete, but a cultural icon. He was untouchable. He seemed immortal. You don’t have to be a NBA fan to realize the impact that he had on our world. Obviously, we lose people all the time. Not every passing receives this much attention, and everyone certainly deserves acknowledgement. However, I feel that the shock waves that Kobe’s passing sent through society is a testament to the lives he impacted. I believe that in everything negative situation, there’s always some light at the end of the tunnel. However, this doesn’t feel the same. I can’t find any positives. It’s just an overall terrible situation. I can’t even begin to comprehend what his wife, Vanessa, and the rest of his family is going through. It’s one of the most heartbreaking things I can remember witnessing. Kobe wasn’t a basketball player, he was a hero. He is a hero.”
“I woke up at 10 like a normal Sunday morning, got dressed and went to work. It felt like a normal day, until I took a break during around 3:30 and checked my phone. I hadn’t noticed, but my buddy kept texting me, saying things like “we’re here for you Will.” Of course, I had no idea what was going on and said and asked him what had happened. It was then when I learned of the accident. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. My childhood hero, the man who I used stay up late at night as a kid and spend countless hours watching on TV. I aspired to be like him in every aspect of life. He is not only the reason I play sports, but also what led me to pursue writing. I then called my mom, saying “ Kobe can’t be dead, right?” After hanging up, I sat in the bathroom shaking. I didn’t even wanna go out there. I just wanted to cry. It couldn’t be true. This man was not only my favorite hooper, but a role model, an icon. I would always relentlessly defend why I believe he was better than LeBron or any other legend. After work, I went home, still in shock. I didn’t know what to do. I looked at old photos of me wearing a Kobe jersey while I was only five years old. But I certainly know you would want me to move on and be the best runner I can be. I am going to qualify for State on Wednesday, for you. Rest easy, Kobe. I love you. Mamba mentality forever.”
Along with mourning, this grievous time can show us all a lesson. Life is fragile. We never know what day could be our last. Don’t hold grudges, forgive others. Tell those who are important to you that you love them. We must also not forget about the other victims of the crash, who don’t receive the same level of media attention. Their lives, and memories alike, are just as important. Their families need the same support and love. This whole catastrophe shows how precious life is, and shows us that we truly can’t take it for granted.
Contributing authors listed in order according to quotations: Drew Tineo, Riley Platt, and Will Cash
