On Sunday, the world was devastated by the heart-breaking death of NBA icon Kobe Bryant. The LA Lakers legend passed away in a helicopter crashed which sadly also claimed the life of his daughter Gianna Bryant and another player and daughter who were also on board.
This tragic news shook the entire world, leading to heartfelt tributes to Kobe, who was only 41, to pour in from all over. Bryant, nicknamed Mamba, was a man who transcended his sport and was a revered athlete loved by many in the footballing world.
One footballer who looked up to the late icon is Neymar, a huge fan of basketball. The Brazilian superstar heard of his passing away during his team’s clash with Lille and after scoring a goal in the second half, he dedicated his strike to Kobe
The PSG ace held two fingers on one hand and four on the other, signifying Mamba’s #24 jersey at the LA Lakers, before pointing up to the sky. Check it out in the video below.
Neymar pays tribute to the late Kobe Bryant after scoring for PSG tonight. pic.twitter.com/fLZYrKpNUY
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) January 26, 2020
After the game, Neymar said: "I looked at the messages at half-time.
"This is a time of immense sadness for the world of sport. Not just basketball fans.
"I knew him. This celebration was for him. I hope he rests in peace."
The world’s most expensive player joined the likes of Cristiano, Messi, and Sterling in offering their condolences to the Bryant family, who lost both Kobe and young daughter Gianna.
So sad to hear the heartbreaking news of the deaths of Kobe and his daughter Gianna. Kobe was a true legend and inspiration to so many. Sending my condolences to his family and friends and the families of all who lost their lives in the crash. RIP Legend pic.twitter.com/qKb3oiDHxH
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) January 26, 2020
Rest easy Legend pic.twitter.com/a0lWTWacKW
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) January 26, 2020