By Michael Angelo S. Murillo
Senior Reporter

NATIONAL Basketball Association legend Kobe Bryant loved the Philippines and, in turn, the country loved him back. So when news of the untimely death of the many-time Manila visitor on Monday (Manila time) broke out, Filipinos mourned and expressed their love and respect for the “Black Mamba.”

The local basketball community, in particular, was one in grieving after it was reported that the five-time NBA champion and hoops icon was one of nine people who died in a helicopter crash in California.

Mr. Bryant was 41 years old at the time of his death. Also perishing in the crash was his daughter Gianna, 13. They were reportedly on their way to a basketball tournament for young players.

As was the case in different parts of the world, local basketball stakeholders received the sad news with much shock and disbelief.

“Damn. I have no words,” wrote sportscaster Jinno Rufino on his Twitter account of the passing of Mr. Bryant, who visited the Philippines many times during his Hall-of-Fame NBA career and brand ambassador for global brand Nike.

“Still can’t believe it until now #mambaout,” former Gilas Pilipinas and Philippine Basketball Association coach Chot Reyes, for his part, tweeted.

Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers at number 13 in the 1996 NBA rookie draft, Mr. Bryant achieved greatness in 20 years in The Association, all with the purple and gold, winning league titles and individual awards while putting his name in the record books in so many categories.

He also served as inspiration to countless players of a generation who looked up to him for how he carried himself both on and off the court.

“Lost for words. No the news i wanted to hear when i woke up. Life’s short man. Appreciate everybody around you to the fullest! Do not take anything for granted. You were one of the reasons i played the sport, Kobe. You are the reason why i want to be great,” wrote Gilas and NLEX Road Warriors player Kiefer Ravena on Twitter in sharing what Mr. Bryant meant to him as a player.

“Your IMPACT and LEGACY canNOT be explained in words. Thoughts and prayers out to you and your family. #RIPMamba #RIPGiGi,” PBA veteran guard Sol Mercado said from his end.

PBA imports also shared their thoughts on the passing of Mr. Bryant, who first visited the country in the late 1990s while he was still building his legend with the Lakers.

“RIP to the best player i’ve ever played against!!! He made a kid from West Virgina believe he could make it too with some hard work and dedication!!! #24/8 #MambaMentality,” NLEX and Blackwater reinforcement and former NBA campaigner Henry Walker tweeted.

Three-time PBA best import awardee Allen Durham of the Meralco Bolts underscored the legend that Mr. Bryant was, saying, “Gone way too soon, I appreciate everything you gave to us. R.I.P LEGEND.”

The last time Mr. Bryant was in the Philippines was in 2016 as part of his “Mamba Mentality Tour” and after playing his final season in the NBA.

Filipinos showed their appreciation to the NBA legend as they flocked to the Araneta Coliseum where he was honored.

A banner was raised as a tribute to him, joining that of “Thrilla In Manila” banner lionizing the historic fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier which was held in the venue in 1975.

“I just want to say thank you so much for inspiring me on this journey,” Mr. Bryant said, thanking the Filipino fans.

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