On Sunday, Jan. 27, Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna, were among seven other passengers who passed away in a helicopter crash. There was an emotional outpouring worldwide in response to this tragedy. Everyone was in utter disbelief and confusion, and what seemed like a nightmare became a harsh reality when the news became official.

Even in a town 2,700 miles away from where Kobe played most of his basketball, he still found a way to impact the students at Hillsborough High School. 

“I didn’t believe it at first. I thought it was a joke but after an hour of the news coming, it became a reality and a nightmare,” junior Kabir Singh said. “Kobe was my hero ever since I was eight years old. He was almost like a second father figure and he’s impacted me in every shape and form of my life.” 

Like for Singh, Kobe has played an important part in many lives, especially those who play or have played basketball. During the most recent decade, it felt like Kobe highlights were on loop almost every night because he usually had a highlight worthy play. One of the most recent memories of his playing career was his final game versus the Utah Jazz, as he finished his career in the most Kobe way possible, scoring 60 points. His desire to win and outwork his opponents always resonated with people, and is what made Kobe so special. 

“As a Laker fan, I looked up to him as a player myself being a prime example of how hard work and dedication to your craft can allow you to be great,” former Hillsborough varsity point guard Dante Walker said. “But Kobe wasn’t just a basketball player, he was a stellar activist for female athletes and an amazing father who wanted nothing but the best for his four daughters.” 

As Walker talked about, Kobe was a family man and was a great father to his four daughters. After his basketball career ended, he spent a lot of time with his family and coached his daughter Gigi. He also won an Oscar award for his animated film “Dear Basketball”. 

Overall, Kobe impacted individuals in so many ways. His influence on the game will be unmatched and his work ethic will still continue to influence future basketball players. Kobe’s legacy will never die, and will still be heard echoing through students and basketball players yelling “Kobe!” when they take a shot.