VIDEO: Quinn Cook Explains Decision to Mourn Loss of Kobe Bryant Outside Staples Center With Laker Fans

The death of Kobe Bryant shocked everyone in the basketball world. Someone who had become a staple of our lives was suddenly gone in an instant. That realization was difficult for many people to swallow, athletes and fans alike. One of the athletes who took Kobe's death hard was Quinn Cook. The point guard grew up a massive Lakers fan, as well as a huge Kobe supporter, and was seen mourning the loss of Bryant alongside the masses outside Staples Center on Sunday. Well, he's now explained his decision to join the Lakers faithful in grieving, and it's a touching gesture.

"I'm a fan first, so I wanted to be a part of something so special, just all the fans honoring him, honoring Gigi, honoring everyone who was affected," said Cook.

It was a moment of vulnerability that isn't often seen from an athlete. It's at times like these we remember that these players are just the same as us, and feel emotion just as strongly when tragedy strikes. Cook grew up, like many NBA fans and players, idolizing Bryant. As he so perfectly put it, he's a fan first.

Cook also made a point to note that Lakers fans were extremely respectful of him during the tough time, and allowed him the space to grieve openly, which isn't the easiest thing to do in the presence of a professional athlete. In a situation like this where sadness is so profound, it is comforting to know these players have the support of an entire city behind them.