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Kobe Bryant's former agent has revealed that the basketball player's final text, sent shortly before his death in a helicopter crash, was aimed at securing an internship for the daughter of a friend.
Speaking at a celebration of the the lives of Bryant and his daughter Gianna in Los Angeles, Rob Pelinka said: "His last human act was heroic."
Mr Pelinka, general manager of the LA Lakers, said the player was trying to secure an internship with a baseball agency for the daughter of John Altobelli, one of nine people to die in the 26 January crash that also killed Kobe and Gianna.
He told an audience of the Bryants' friends, family, colleagues and admirers at the Staples Center: "Kobe and I talked or texted every single day because that is what best friends do.
"Kobe vouched for the girl's character, intellect, and work ethic. He clearly wanted to champion a bright future for her.
Kobe and Gianna Bryant: A celebration of life
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"A handful of minutes later, Kobe and Gianna and seven other beautiful souls ascended into heaven. Kobe had been texting me from the helicopter."
He added: "Kobe's last human act was heroic."
Mr Pelinka was godfather to Gianna and described the 13-year-old as "a combination of dignity and grace with a sense of humor".
Earlier Bryant's wife Vanessa gave a moving tribute to her late husband and daughter. She said: "He isn’t going to be able to walk our girls down the aisle or spin me around on the dance floor but I want my girls to know the amazing man, husband and father he was."
She described her daughter as an "amazingly sweet and thoughtful soul", adding: "She knew how much her morning and evening kisses meant to me … she was daddy’s girl, but I know she loved her mama. She was one of my very best friends."
FAQs
Kobe Bryant's former agent has revealed that the basketball player's final text, sent shortly before his death in a helicopter crash, was aimed at securing an internship for the daughter of a friend.
What was Kobe Bryant most known for? ›
Kobe Bryant (born August 23, 1978, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.—died January 26, 2020, Calabasas, California) was an American professional basketball player, who helped lead the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA) to five championships (2000–02 and 2009–10).
What is the amazing success story of basketball player Kobe Bryant? ›
In his second season with the Lakers, Bryant was voted a starter for the 1998 All-Star Game, becoming the youngest All-Star in NBA history at 19. The shooting guard then teamed up with superstar center Shaquille O'Neal to win three consecutive NBA championships and was voted first-team all-NBA from 2002-2004.
Why is Kobe Bryant remarkable? ›
Kobe Bryant has beaten the most 50+ win teams in NBA history. He holds the record for the second most points scored in a single game NBA history, and has the first most scored in the modern era of the NBA.
Why was Kobe Bryant a hero? ›
Because of Bryant,NBA players are getting their achievement. Kobe Bryant impacted NBA through the achievements and speeches. His work in the NBA completed lots of rewards. Kobe Bryant was an important person in history because of his Achievements,Career,Challenges/Overcoming Obstacles.
What made Kobe so special? ›
There is a reason that he was a 5 time NBA Champion and one of the top 3 pure scorers in NBA history and it is not a mistake or coincidence. His maniacal work ethic and intense attention to detail is legendary in NBA circles - it seems like almost everyone in the NBA has a “Kobe Story”.
How did Kobe Bryant inspire others? ›
Showing Up Beyond the Home Court
Kobe influenced children beyond his own, including writing a series of children's books like “Legacy and the Queen and “Legacy and the Double.” Kobe said he wrote the books to inspire children (including his own!) to work hard and believe in themselves.
How did Kobe change the world? ›
Bryant made many charitable donations, including in support of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Kobe continued to be an all-star, even off the court, until his tragic death on January 26, 2020.
Why is Kobe Bryant such a good leader? ›
By staying open-minded and having respect for others, Kobe was able to lead his teammates to their greatest successes. He also understood the importance of self-reflection and taking time to evaluate how he could continue to improve as a leader.
Where is Kobe buried? ›
What is Kobe Bryant's legacy? ›
Bryant's legacy lives on with the Los Angeles Lakers, with the NBA and WNBA (both leagues have awards in honor of him), with Nike and with the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation.
Why was Kobe Bryant a great leader? ›
By staying open-minded and having respect for others, Kobe was able to lead his teammates to their greatest successes. He also understood the importance of self-reflection and taking time to evaluate how he could continue to improve as a leader.
How tall was Kobe Bryant at 16? ›
How tall were NBA players as children? Shaq was 6'6" at 14. Kobe was 6'3" at 16.
