LeBron James reacts to Kobe’s death: ‘I’m not ready, but here I go’

LeBron James reacts to the sudden loss of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna.

Just over 48 hours after LeBron James passed Kobe Bryant for No. 3 on the NBA’s All-Time scoring list, James reluctantly wrote out the first of many goodbyes to his friend, rival, idol, and a Lakers legend on Monday night. Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven other people passed away tragically in a helicopter crash on Sunday morning. James had yet to speak on the tragedy until Monday night.

On Instagram, James began with the heartbreaking stanza, “I’m not ready, but here I go.” Less than two days after telling the story of squeezing his size 15 feet into the size 14 shoes that Kobe had given him, LeBron shared his heartbreak and his sympathy with Vanessa Bryant, her daughters, and the other families affected by Sunday’s crash.

View this post on Instagram

I’m Not Ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had! I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. WTF!! I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!! 😢😢😢😢💔. Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation💜💛 and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!! Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!! #Mamba4Life❤️🙏🏾 #Gigi4Life❤️🙏🏾

A post shared by LeBron James (@kingjames) on

Tuesday’s game between the Lakers and Clippers has been postponed, with the league saying it will be rescheduled for a later date.

The Lakers are scheduled to play again on Friday night at Staples Center against the Portland Trail Blazers.

[lawrence-related id=26012,26003,25997]