The world has suffered a lot of losses in the last few years. The COVID-19 pandemic devastated nations across the world, with millions losing their lives and leading the world to come to a standstill. For the NBA world, the year 2020 also began on an ominous note, with the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant alongside his young daughter Gianna and 7 other passengers in a helicopter crash.
The NBA community spent a lot of time in mourning, honoring Kobe time and again. And in the last few days, another legend also left us, with Bill Russell passing away at 88. A lot of stories about his life have come forward since, including his lovely message to Kobe in 2008.
The two are held in the highest regard by basketball fans, both Russell and Bryant were giants of the game in different eras. And a photo of the two of them together at the ESPYs as recently as 2019 has surfaced on social media.
“R.I.P to both legends.”
“World went to sh*t after 2019.”
“Two GOATs together, you will be missed.”
“RIP ❤️ they’ve given so much to the world.”
“Let’s appreciate life.”
“RIP legends.”
“RIP never fade away.”
“Praying for the families of both these legends.”
“RIP ♥️ they probably playing basketball in heaven.”
“RIP miss these legends.”
Life is cruel in the sense that it eventually fades away for everyone, no matter how great they have been in their lifetimes. Basketball fans will miss both Russell and Bryant and the picture is a reminder of how fleeting everything can be.
NBA fans tend to get a little obsessed with comparing players and comparing their achievements. It is all mostly in good fun, but it’s important to not forget to give legends their flowers while they are still with us. Whatever else may come in doubt though, Kobe Bryant and Bill Russell’s greatness never will.
