Neymar Jr. pays tribute to Kobe Bryant
Neymar Jr. pays tribute to Kobe Bryant after scoring penalty in last night’s win
Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna were among those tragically killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California on Sunday.
Among the outpouring of support — which has seen everyone from fans, celebrities, and fellow sports stars pay tribute to the late Lakers legend and his daughter — Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar Jr. honored the five-time NBA champion during his side’s game against Lille on Sunday night.
After scoring his second goal of the match, a penalty in the 52nd minute, Neymar Jr. celebrated by putting up two and four fingers on each hand in a nod to the Lakers star’s famous number 24 jersey.
Neymar also scored PSG’s first goal in the 2-0 win against Lille, though reports suggest Neymar only found out about Bryant’s death at half-time, thus honoring him with his second celebration of the night.
Following the final whistle, Neymar – a basketball fan – hailed Bryant's impact, stating his death is a sad moment for the entire world of sport.
"I looked at the messages at half-time," Neymar told Canal+. "This is a time of immense sadness for the world of sport and for all of us, not just basketball fans.
"I knew him and I made this celebration to pay tribute to him. I hope he rests in peace."
Bryant won five NBA championships and made 18 NBA All-Star teams during a 20-year stint with the Lakers.
