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Kyrie Irving pays tribute to Kobe Bryant, Gigi, along with victims of tragic 2020 helicopter crash

Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
Photo by Harry How/Getty Images
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Kyrie Irving marked the sixth anniversary of the 2020 helicopter tragedy with a message honouring every life lost.

Kyrie Irving shared a post reflecting on the day Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, and seven others were killed in a helicopter crash.

The message served as a moment of remembrance for Irving, whose connection to Bryant remained significant long after his passing.

Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers covers Kyrie Irving #2 of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first half of a game on February 10, 2016 at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland won 120-111.
Photo by: 2016 Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images

Kyrie Irving remembers Kobe Bryant and all helicopter crash victims

Kyrie Irving posted a message on X to mark six years since the helicopter crash that killed Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, and seven others.

Irving chose to list every victim by name, placing equal focus on each life lost on January 26th, 2020, in Los Angeles.

“1/26/20 – Rest in Paradise – Kobe Bryant, Gianna Bryant, Ara Zobayan, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester, Christina Mauser,” Irving wrote.

The post resonated across the NBA community, highlighting how the tragedy continues to be felt throughout the sport.

Kyrie Irving’s lasting connection to Kobe Bryant

Kyrie Irving has previously spoken about the influence Kobe Bryant had on his life, describing him as a mentor whose guidance extended beyond basketball.

Their relationship was built on trust and shared conversations away from the spotlight, dating back to their time together with Team USA at the 2012 London Olympics.

By acknowledging every victim on the anniversary, Irving reinforced how deeply the events of January 26, 2020 continue to shape his perspective.

The tribute reflected both remembrance and respect, underscoring the lasting impact of Bryant’s legacy on those closest to him.