Kobe Bryant dead: Trump reacts, calling it 'terrible news'

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Kobe Bryant killed in California helicopter crash

Kobe Bryant was among five killed in a helicopter crash in California on Sunday. Bryant, 41, played for the Los Angeles Lakers for 20 seasons and won five NBA championships.

President Trump on Sunday reacted to NBA superstar Kobe Bryant's death in a helicopter crash, calling it "terrible news."

"Reports are that basketball great Kobe Bryant and three others have been killed in a helicopter crash in California. That is terrible news!" the president tweeted.

Trump took a break from tweeting dozens of posts slamming the ongoing Senate impeachment trial against him.

His reaction came hours after reports that Bryant, 41, was killed as his helicopter went down in Calabasas, Calif.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office said all nine onboard had died but did not confirm the identities of the other passengers.

Trump later added to his sentiments saying: "Kobe Bryant, despite being one of the truly great basketball players of all time, was just getting started in life. He loved his family so much, and had such strong passion for the future. The loss of his beautiful daughter, Gianna, makes this moment even more devastating. Melania and I send our warmest condolences to Vanessa and the wonderful Bryant family. May God be with you all!"

Bryant was, on numerous occasions, critical of Trump, especially after the president disinvited Golden State Warriors' champion Stephen Curry from visiting the White House in celebration of the team's NBA title.

"A #POTUS whose name alone creates division and anger. Whose words inspire dissension and hatred can't possibly "Make America Great Again,"" Bryant tweeted in Sept. 2017.

Almost a month later, when asked if he would attend a possible White House visit of his own, Bryant said he would not go.

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"I wouldn't go. Simple. I think it's a whole matter of respect and standing up for what you believe in," Bryant said. "You can agree or not disagree and that's completely fine, I think that's the beauty of the country is being able to speak up for what you believe in right? So being able to voice that opinion, you can agree with it or disagree with it, but I'll certainly respect your opinion and believe all thoughts should be valued, but no I wouldn't go."