NFL holds moment of silence for Kobe Bryant at Super Bowl Opening Night

Kobe Bryant was a transcendent figure in the world of sports and the NFL held a moment of silence for the late Los Angeles Lakers star on Monday, before hosting Super Bowl Opening Night.

Bryant, along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, were among nine people who died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on Sunday.

“Kobe was an extraordinary athlete, who thrilled and entertained sports fans around the world for a generation,” the announcer stated, prior to the moment of silence.

The NFL paid tribute to the late Los Angeles Lakers legend on Monday. (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)
The NFL paid tribute to the late Los Angeles Lakers legend on Monday. (David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports)

Bryant was widely considered among the greatest players in NBA history, winning five NBA titles, earning 18 All-Star selections, an MVP award and two Finals MVPs during his decorated career, spent entirely with the Lakers.

It’s a crushing loss for the world of sports and before Super Bowl week gets underway, the NFL had to pay tribute to one of the greatest stars of his generation.

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