Lakers Release First Statement in Wake of Kobe Bryant's Tragic Death
By Michael Luciano
The Los Angeles Lakers, like the rest of the country, are in a state of complete shock after NBA legend Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter accident at the age of 41 alongside eight other passengers, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna among them.
The Lakers were scheduled to play the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, but they have managed to get the game postponed after talking with the league. In a statement, the organization extended their condolences to Bryant's family, especially his widow Vanessa and his three surviving daughters.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 27, 2020
The Lakers are still in the process of picking up the pieces in the immediate aftermath, but they have done an exemplary job of providing help to those who need it.
The Lakers will have counselors on staff for players and team personnel, as they process the fact one of the greatest athletes in NBA history has left us at such a young age, along with his daughter.
Yahoo Sources: The NBA provided grieving counselors for the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday to aide in dealing with the tragic loss of Kobe Bryant. After speaking with players and members of staff, it was determined the best course of action was postponing Tuesday’s game.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 27, 2020
The Lakers, understandably, will be hit considerably harder by Bryant's death than anyone else in the NBA. Now that the game has been cancelled and the team has brought in professionals to help the organization heal mentally, the Lakers are trying everything in their power to overcome the shattering loss of one of the game's greatest.