Wolves say the NBA and the world are in a better place because of Kobe Bryant

Kobe on Target Center screen
Photo credit Entercom
Here is the Timberwolves' statement on the passing of NBA legend Kobe Bryant:

  • Minneapolis-St. Paul – The Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx organization is deeply saddened by the passing of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and those affected in today’s tragedy. Few players have had the worldwide impact on the game of basketball that Kobe did. His immense presence was felt not only on the court, but off the court as a husband, father, mentor, and entrepreneur. The NBA and the world are in a better place because of Kobe and our thoughts and prayers go out to Kobe’s wife, Vanessa, their family, and the Lakers organization.

Durning his career, Bryant faced the Timberwolves in 64 regular season games, averaging 24.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists.

"To see him come on to the floor and just embrace that spotlight, he just ate it up," Horton told Dave Lee on the WCCO Morning News. "You could just see his charisma come through when he would check in."

He remained the number-three NBA scorer until this past Saturday, when his career total was surpassed by LeBron James.

The Wolves host the Sacramento Kings Monday night at Target Center.

On Sunday night, several NBA teams honored Bryant by purposely taking 24-second and eight-second violations.

Bryant wore 8 and 24 for the Lakers during his NBA carer.

"I think the teams, especially yesterday afternoon, they were, kind of, sort of, just left asking a lot of questions," said Horton. "Are we even playing, are we not playing, what can we do? I think (the violations were) brilliant."