PITTSBURGH (Newsradio 1020 KDKA) - The tragic death of basketball superstar Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and 7 others in a helicopter crash Sunday has prompted a wave of reactions from Pittsburgh sports figures.
Former Schenley High School, Pitt, and NBA player DeJuan Blair played against Bryant. "It's real tough. I still feel sick to my stomach," said Blair. "Disbelief."
Blair says he first met Bryant when Schenley played against Kobe's former high school, Lower Merion, in a state championship game.
"He was just getting started," Blair told KDKA radio's Lynne Hayes-Freeland. "He was young. I believe off the court he was going to be more iconic that on the court."
I just met Kobe last wednesday, was in his office talking about our books and how everyday in life is a grind. I don't believe this.
— James Conner (@JamesConner_) January 26, 2020Steelers running back James Conner tweeted he met Bryant for the first time last week to talk about their books. "I told Kobe I'm tryna be legendary like him ..."
I told Kobe I'm tryna be legendary like him he simply said, "just grind, just grind everyday." Truly thankful I was able to hear that from him days before he passed. I gotta go harder. And if I tell you I love you I mean it... ----
— James Conner (@JamesConner_) January 26, 2020Mt Lebanon native and Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban tweeted, "I hope we all remember that Kobe and Gianna have brought our country closer together than anyone has in a generation."
I hope we all remember that Kobe and Gianna have brought our country closer together than anyone has in a generation. Their memory truly is a blessing that we should build on.
— Mark Cuban (@mcuban) January 27, 2020Pitt basketball player Ryan Murphy who grew up in the Los Angeles area tweeted he wears number 24 in Kobe's honor. "The reason for the 24. May God rest your soul."
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