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Kobe Bryant’s death sends shock wave through Philadelphia sports, NBA and the world

Sixers center Joel Embiid paid homage to Bryant, saying the five-time NBA champion sparked his own early interest in the game. Bryant died in a helicopter crash outside Los Angeles on Sunday.

Kobe Bryant hugs members of the Sixers following the game on Dec. 1, 2015. This was Kobe Bryant's final game in his hometown after announcing he will retire at the end of the season. The Sixers won their first game 103-91. ( CHARLES FOX / Staff Photographer )
Kobe Bryant hugs members of the Sixers following the game on Dec. 1, 2015. This was Kobe Bryant's final game in his hometown after announcing he will retire at the end of the season. The Sixers won their first game 103-91. ( CHARLES FOX / Staff Photographer )Read more
    by EJ Smith
    Updated 
    Published 

Kobe Bryant’s death on Sunday rattled the entire sports world. Philadelphia, his hometown, was no exception.

Sixers center Joel Embiid paid homage to the five-time NBA champion, crediting Bryant, who was killed in a helicopter crash Sunday morning, for his early interest in the game.

Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz added:

Wentz wasn’t alone, several other Eagles weighed in.

Current Phillies outfielder Andrew McCutchen and former Phillies outfielder Shane Victorino both offered their condolences to Bryant and his family.

Philly rapper Meek Mill said this:

Former president Barack Obama said:

Michael Jordan said Bryant “was like a little brother to me”:

Soccer star Neymar Jr. paid tribute to Bryant after scoring a goal Sunday afternoon:

Athletes around the country and the world expressed shock and sadness: