Piers Morgan, 54, has paid tribute to NBA legend Kobe Bryant following reports that he has passed away at the age of 41, according to TMZ.
The Good Morning Britain presenter shared a photo of the basketball star in his Lakers kit and wrote in view of his 7.1 million Twitter followers: “Few bigger icons in the history of world sport than Kobe Bryant.
“This is desperately sad news. RIP.”
TMZ reported that the sportsman died in Calabasas on Sunday morning in a helicopter crash.
LA County sheriffs tweeted: “Five people confirmed deceased, no survivors in #Calabasas helicopter crash. #LASD #Malibu deputies remain with #LA County Fire personnel. Investigation ongoing.
“Avoid the area until further notice.”
Other celebrities joined Piers in sharing their sadness and shock in response to the news.
Khloe Kardashian wrote: “This can’t be real, there’s no way!!! My heart hurts.”
In another tweet, she added: “Please don’t let this be True. I’m shaking.”
Match Of The Day host Gary Lineker also shared: “Oh no. How awful.
“One of the greatest sportsmen of our lifetime. Utterly tragic.”
Basketball player Kevin Love commented: “Please no. Please god no. It can’t be true.”
Kobe dedicated his 20-year career in basketball to the Lose Angeles Lakers and retired in April 2016.
He was awarded the 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player and two-time NBA Finals MVP.
The star was also two-time NBA scoring champion and a two-time Olympic champion.
