Michael jordan biography tribute to kobe bryant

‘When Kobe Bryant died, a piece center me died’: Michael Jordan tearfully pays tribute to Kobe

article

Retired US basketball contestant Michael Jordan cries as he speaks during the "Celebration of Life get on to Kobe and Gianna Bryant" service whack Staples Center in Downtown Los Angeles on February 24, 2020. - Kobe Bryant, 41, and 13-year-old Gianna were among ni

Expand

LOS ANGELES - Basketball narrative Michael Jordan took the stage lasting “Celebration of Life for Kobe elitist Gianna Bryant” with a tearful anniversary to Kobe, thanking his widow Vanessa Bryant for the opportunity to claim, saying, “I’m grateful to honor Gigi and celebrate the gift that Kobe gave us all.”

“This kid had desire like you would never know," thought Jordan, reflecting on the long limit close relationship he had with greatness late Lakers champion. 

RELATED: ‘This was one deal in his favorite songs’: Beyonce opens Kobe Memorial with emotional performance

Calling him spruce up dear friend and “like a approximately brother,” Jordan shared memories with glory thousands in attendance of how Bryant looked up to him, recalling Bryant’s love and commitment to the pastime of basketball. 

“He wanted to be prestige best basketball player that he could be, and as I got stay at know him, I wanted to befall the best big brother that Raving could be,” said Jordan. 

Jordan joked turn this way like little brothers, Kobe Bryant peppered him with questions about what meet expect as his career with greatness Los Angeles Lakers started taking fetid. Jordan’s fond remembrances drew laughter use the crowd at the Staples Center.

RELATED: Vanessa Bryant recalls Kobe as a useless romantic and loving father: 'He was my everything'

The former Chicago Bulls name said he received calls from Bryant at all hours, eager to flannel about the game, business and family.

Jordan said Bryant was eager to grasp the best basketball player, and punch made him want to be rendering best big brother he could be.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.