Kobe Bryant's Death Will Have a Disastrous Effect on Kyrie Irving

There are so many stories coming out about all of those affected by Kobe Bryant's sudden death. But, Kyrie Irving's actions spoke louder than words.

The Brooklyn Nets faced off against the New York Knicks Sunday night following news of Kobe's death, but Irving reportedly left Madison Square Garden in learning of his mentor's passing, missing the game entirely.

The two had a close relationship. Bryant was a big brother for Irving. He was there to help him both on and off the court.

That's just who Kobe was, though. Not just for Kyrie either. He was a mentor for countless hoopers out there.

The Nets announced Kyrie's absence from the game about an hour before tip-off, listing him inactive for "personal reasons". Kyrie told ESPN in 2017 that he had an amazing relationship with the Black Mamba, one that never stopped.

The Brooklyn guard has gotten off to a rocky start in his new city, sustaining a shoulder injury in early November that kept him out until mid January. He returned to action on Jan. 13 against the Hawks and was starting to heat up again, averaging 24.8 points, 5.8 assists and 1.8 steals a game since his return.

Irving's reaction to Kobe's death could lead to him sitting out some more games, as he copes with the emotional toll the news had on him. No one would blame him if he decided to take time off. He lost a mentor, but more importantly, he lost someone who's like family.