NBA Legend Michael Jordan Gets Teary-Eyed As He Fondly Remembers Kobe Bryant

As soon as Jordan started his speech, Jordan broke down almost, and, about halfway through, he did not hesitate to poke fun at himself for being unable to hold his emotions together

Photo: NBA (Twitter)

New York: Global Basketball icon Michael Jordan said that a part of him died when basketball legend Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash. “Kobe was my dear friend, he was like a little brother,” Jordan said at the memorial service at Staples Center in Los Angeles to the thousands in attendance. “When Kobe died, a little piece of me died.” As soon as Jordan started his speech, Jordan broke down almost, and, about halfway through, he did not hesitate to poke fun at himself for being unable to hold his emotions together. "In the game of basketball, in life, as a parent, Kobe left nothing in the tank," Jordan said. "He left it all on the floor."

'When Kobe Bryant died, a piece of me died' — Michael Jordan teared up remembering his 'little bro' pic.twitter.com/Q5Pqm5YCmO

— NowThis (@nowthisnews) February 25, 2020

Bryant played his entire career - two decades - with the Lakers. His untimely death sent shockwaves throughout the world, with global sports icons and basketball fans saddened by the news.

"Once upon a time..." pic.twitter.com/gYtzgAj6nZ

— NBA (@NBA) February 24, 2020

Frequently hailed as one of the greatest basketball minds' of his generation, Bryant was a five-time NBA champion, 18-time All-Star and a two-time Olympic gold medalist.

A Celebration of Life for Kobe and Gianna Bryant https://t.co/mGGQcpIJ34

— NBA (@NBA) February 24, 2020