Jeanie Buss: Kobe gave me strength when I needed it most
Los Angeles Lakers controlling owner Jeanie Buss issued her first public statement since Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and seven others died in a helicopter accident in California on Sunday.
Buss posted a photo of herself on Instagram alongside Bryant, his wife, Vanessa, and two of their daughters, Natalia and Gianna. She reflected on the impact that Kobe and Gianna left on her following the death of her father, Jerry Buss, and emphasized that the Lakers organization will be there to support the Bryant family through the tragedy.
Kobe, I don’t know how to express what you mean to me, my family and the Los Angeles Lakers. My father loved you like a son, which makes us family. When you invited me to lunch shortly after my father passed away, I was struggling to find motivation and purpose.
Kobe, you brought Gianna with you to spend some time with me. You explained that you wanted to show her that women can be leaders in the NBA, just like the men.
At first, it seemed like an action of a devoted father setting an example for his daughter. But in actuality – and I am positively sure you knew EXACTLY what you were doing – what you did was give me the inspiration and strength I was searching for. I reflect on that day often and it makes me smile and it makes me strong. I call on that memory whenever I feel down and need a bit of courage.
For everything you did on the court that filled me with so much joy and love, for all the lives you changed through basketball itself, it was that day with Gigi that reignited my drive and determination.
Vanessa, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri - I am so sorry for your loss. We are grateful to have you in our lives and we will always be here for you. To the families that also lost loved ones on Sunday, the entire Laker family mourns with you.
Laker Nation - we are one family grieving the loss of people we all loved dearly. We will mourn together, cry together but we will also heal together, love together and win TOGETHER. We love you.
The executive took over as Lakers governor following her father's death in 2013.