Jeanie Buss Who Owns LA Lakers Writes Heartbreaking Post about Kobe & Gianna Bryant

Following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Giana, Lakers owner, Jeanie Buss shared a tribute to the deceased in a lengthy post on Instagram.

Buss shared an image of herself with Kobe, his wife Vanessa, and two of their daughters on a plane. As the caption, she wrote,

"Kobe, I don't know how to express what you mean to me, my family, and the Los Angeles Lakers. My father loved you like a son, which makes us family."

Buss recalled meeting Gianna while grieving her father Jerry Buss's death in 2013, writing that she now understands why Bryant orchestrated the interaction.

She continued by adding how Kobe had helped her cope by inviting her to lunch when she was struggling with the loss of her father. She wrote,

"Kobe, you brought Gianna with you to spend some time with me. You explained that you wanted to show her that women can be leaders in the NBA, just like the men."

Jeanie Buss thanked the late legend for bringing his daughter with him that day; according to her, Gianna was the inspiration she needed to believe in the game once again.

The Lakers, in honor of Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter, and the other victims of the crash, played their first game since Bryant's death on Friday at the Staples Center.

Meeting with Gianna that day gave her the courage never to give up. She also went on to thank Kobe for bringing so much light to her heart and also that of his fellow team players.

Buss also sent her condolences not only to Kobe's family but also to everyone that lost loved ones in the crash. "Vanessa, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri - I am so sorry for your loss," she said.

The Lakers owner also noted that fans and friends could help the families of the victims of the helicopter crash by making a donation on MambaOnThree.org. The news of the tragedy which happened about a week ago has left many heartbroken.

The Lakers, in honor of Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter, and the other victims of the crash, played their first game since Bryant's death on Friday at the Staples Center.

They played against the Portland Trail Blazers. They were scheduled to play the Clippers on Tuesday, but the game was postponed to a later date due to the tragedy.

To conclude her message on Instagram, Jeanie Buss made mention of what made the late basketball star special. Buss wrote,

"Kobe - that's what you made you so unbelievably special. You not only inspired us towards greatness, you showed us the way."

To Buss and so many others whose lives Kobe touched during his 41 years alive, he will forever be remembered and celebrated as the great player, friend, and father that he was.