The Spurs Honored The Life Of Kobe Bryant In The Kindest Ways (VIDEO)
When news broke on Sunday that Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others passed away in a helicopter crash, it felt as though time had stopped. The devastating news from TMZ Sports left the world shaken, though a decision was made to continue on with all NBA games for the day. The Spurs honored Kobe Bryant during and beyond their game against the Raptors on Sunday and it was truly respectful.
Many NBA players, both current and retired, have at one point faced or played alongside Bryant, whether before or during his time with the Lakers.
This is especially true for the Spurs, who had an infamous rivalry with the Lakers while Byant was still in the league.
Spurs vs. Raptors was only the second NBA game to get underway Sunday, and it's safe to say that emotions were at an all-time high.
The game had barely begun before each team paid tribute to Bryant in honorable ways.
Raptors & Spurs each let the shot clock run out to honor Kobe Bryant https://t.co/dyrEddjMPH— CJ Fogler #BlackLivesMatter (@CJ Fogler #BlackLivesMatter) 1580073571.0
In a tweet from Twitter user CJ Fogler, you can see a video from the Spurs vs. Raptors game of both teams letting the shot clock expire for 24-second violations.
Bryant played as #24 for several seasons.
Once fans caught on to what was happening at the game, they immediately stood and applauded the teams for their tribute.
We wouldn't be surprised if there wasn't a dry eye in the house.
I’m heartbroken by this news, you were a true legend, and friend. Rest In Peace @kobebryant, my thoughts and prayer… https://t.co/a3HjyWzwjU— Tony Parker (@Tony Parker) 1580069717.0
Former Spurs player Tony Parker was one of many to tweet about Bryant on Sunday.
Parker tweeted "I’m heartbroken by this news, you were a true legend, and friend. Rest In Peace @kobebryant, my thoughts and prayers to his wife and kids."
Below his kind words was a photo of the two from their days on the court, both looking happy as ever.
The Spurs and Raptors letting the shot clock expire for 24-second violations wasn't the only tribute paid to Bryant on Sunday.
The Spurs' mascot, Coyote, came out to the court wearing Bryant's jersey.
Shortly after, photos of this were posted on the Coyote's Instagram account captioned "Bigger than Basketball. #RipKobeBryant."
Bryant's passing is much bigger than basketball.
Our thoughts are with his and Gianna's family, the families of the seven others who passed on Sunday, and all loved ones affected by this tragedy.