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Obama remembers Kobe Bryant in speech to NBA All-Stars: ‘Nothing is more heartbreaking’

by Marty Johnson - 02/15/20 4:57 PM ET

Former President Barack Obama spoke at the NBA’s All-Star Weekend Newsmaker Brunch in Chicago Saturday, where he reflected on the recent death of NBA superstar Kobe Bryant.

“That loss is something that I know many are still grappling with, particularly because he was with his daughter and those families,” Obama said.

CNN’s Wolf Blitzer posted a video of the former president’s remarks on Instagram.

Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven other people died Jan. 26 when the helicopter they were flying in crashed in Calabasas, Calif.

Obama also talked about the “joy and privilege” of being a parent and cheering for kids at their sports games.

“Nothing is more heartbreaking,” Obama said of Bryant and his daughter’s tragic passing. Gianna Bryant also played basketball like her father.

Bryant – an 18-time All-Star and five-time NBA champion – was 41. The last two NBA titles that Bryant won – 2009 and 2010 – were while Obama was in the White House.

Tags Barack Obama Chicago Kobe Bryant Kobe Bryant NBA All-Star Game