The NBA today confirmed that Wednesday's (IST) game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers will be postponed in the wake of Kobe Bryant's tragic death.
Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash along with seven other passengers Monday,
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The Athletic's Shams Charania first reported the news, with the NBA releasing the following statement shortly after, saying the decision was made 'out of respect for the Lakers'.
The following has been released by the NBA pic.twitter.com/NgrEP2qpDi
— NBA (@NBA) January 27, 2020
The decision comes after Monday's scheduled games went ahead immediately following the news of Bryant's death, which saw teams and players around the league honour the Laker legend with various tributes, from 24-second shot clock and 8-second violations, to sneaker messages and more.
Per Charania, the Lakers and Clippers consulted with grief counselors, with a source close to both teams saying: “These guys are not ready to play basketball right now.”
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The Los Angeles Lakers released the following statement on the postponement of the game:
"In consultation with the NBA League office, the game scheduled between the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers for Tuesday, January 28 will be postponed and scheduled for a future date.
The Los Angeles Lakers would like to thank all of you for the tremendous outpouring of support and condolences. This is a very difficult time for all of us. We continue to support the Bryant family and will share more information as it is available.
Bryant's passing sent shockwaves around the league and the sporting world, with Clippers star Kawhi Leonard speaking on his impact on the city and the game following their 112-97 win over the Orlando Magic.
“Everybody is sad. Words can’t explain his impact he had on this floor," Leonard said. "The emotional impact he had on everybody. We’re a team from L.A., so we know L.A.’s history with him and it’s just sad.”
The Lakers will next play on Saturday at STAPLES Center against the Portland Trail Blazers.
