Kobe Bryant's shocking death has devastated fans across the globe, including that of Milwaukee Bucks' star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
ESPN-Milwaukee host Doug Russell shared screenshots on Twitter of Giannis' now deactivated Twitter and Instagram accounts.
It appears Giannis Antetokounmpo has either deleted or deactivated his social media platforms. He and Kobe Bryant were close. Kobe challenged him to be great, and was Giannis’ biggest fan. pic.twitter.com/vXkxnKHouZ
— Doug Russell (@DougRussell) January 27, 2020
It appears Antetokounmpo needed a break from social media after hearing of the tragic accident that killed Bryant, his daughter and seven others.
Bryant served as a mentor for Antetokounmpo in his early NBA years, even challenging him to win the MVP title on Twitter.
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) August 27, 2017
"Kobe is one of the greatest players to ever play the game," Antetokounmpo said in an interview posted by the Wisconsin State Journal."I knew that I (was) going to learn a lot from him. I just wanted to take from him his thought process like what he thinks about the game.
Antetokounmpo had the opportunity to sit down with Bryant in 2016 after his final game in Milwaukee. Bryant took that time to discuss Giannis' potential for future success.
The Bucks released this statement in response to Bryant's death:
"Kobe Bryant demonstrated an extraordinary passion for basketball and love for his family. His legendary impact on the game will continue forever and he will be terribly missed by the Bucks organization and basketball fans across the globe.
We are devastated and shocked by this tragedy and for the loss of his daughter, Gianna, and the others on board. Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Bryant family, the Lakers and those who are affected."
