Michael Jordan reacts to Kobe Bryant’s death: ‘Words can’t describe the pain’

Michael Jordan joined the chorus of sadness and admiration for Kobe Bryant following his widely reported death in a helicopter accident Sunday, saying that “words can’t describe the pain I’m feeling.”

Bryant, who died Sunday morning at age 41, grew up idolizing Jordan before successfully emulating him in becoming a basketball icon.

Following Bryant’s death Sunday, Jordan released a statement:

“I am in shock over the tragic news of Kobe’s and Gianna’s passing. Words can’t describe the pain I’m feeling. I loved Kobe — he was like a little brother to me. We used to talk often, and I will miss those conversations very much.

“He was a fierce competitor, one of the greats of the game and a creative force. Kobe was also an amazing dad who loved his family deeply — and took great pride in his daughter’s love for the game of basketball.

“Yvette joins me in sending my deepest condolences to Vanessa, the Lakers organization and basketball fans around the world.”

Bryant and Jordan’s careers only overlapped for a few seasons, but the media and fans couldn’t help but compare the two guards given their styles and high-scoring, title-winning resumes.

The former Los Angeles Lakers star once called Jordan a “big brother” and said that “because we see things in a similar way in terms of our competitive spirit or fire or whatever the case may be, there’s an understanding that we have—a connection that we have.” Jordan said in his statement Sunday he saw Bryant as a “little brother.”

Kobe finished his career third on the all-time NBA scoring leaderboard, one spot ahead of MJ. When LeBron James passed him for the No. 3 spot all-time Saturday night, Bryant tweeted out his congratulations to James.