Five days after the death of legendary basketball player Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers released a statement over the tragic incident.

The team expressed their grief and sent condolences to his family.

“We are devastated and have been forever changed by the sudden loss of Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna. We send our love to Vanessa, the Bryant family, and to the families of the other passengers,” the Lakers posted on Instagram with a picture of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna.

Kobe Bryant: An illustrious 20-year career with Los Angeles Lakers

Bryant started his NBA career in 1996. Charlotte Hornets first selected him with the 13th overall pick in the 1996 NBA draft. The Hornets had actually picked him only to trade with the Lakers. Since then, Bryant has played for the Lakers till his retirement in 2016.

In the aftermath of Bryant’s death, the Lakers postponed a game against local rivals Los Angeles Clipper on January 28.

“Words cannot express what Kobe means to the Los Angeles Lakers, our fans, and our city,” the Lakers’ statement further read. “More than a basketball player, he was a beloved father, husband, and teammate. Their love and light will remain in our hearts forever.”

Since an unfortunate helicopter crash on January 26, the world has been mourning the death of Kobe Bryant. The accident led to the death of seven more people apart from Bryant and his daughter.

Read more: Kobe Bryant Update: Investigations Reveal More

The Lakers gave further details about the Mamba Sports foundation’s initiative to help those affected in the crash.

“The Mamba Sports Foundation has set up the MambaOnThree Fund to support the families affected by this tragedy. To help, please visit MambaOnThree.org. For those who are inspired to continue Kobe and Gianna’s legacy in youth sports, please visit MambaSportsFoundation.org.”