Lakers star LeBron James has joined the list of celebrities mourning the death of retired superstar basketballer, Kobe Bryant, as he paid an emotional tribute to the deceased.
James, 35, was seen weeping at LAX, as he paid tribute to his late former teammate whom he called “big bro” and promised to continue his legacy.
As investigators continue work at the helicopter crash site where Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter and seven other passengers were killed, James wrote: “I’m not ready but here I go.
“Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had.”
James, who surpassed Bryant’s points record on Saturday to become the third highest scoring player in NBA history, went on to talk of his disbelief that a conversation on Sunday was the last the pair would ever have.
“I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have,” he said.
“I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother.”
Expressing his condolences for the family Bryant left behind, he continued: “Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!!
“Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!!”
The pair were known to have a close bond, with both considered two of the finest Lakers players of all time.
