篮球巨星科比及13岁女儿在坠机事故中遇难身亡

We begin the program today with the shocking news that basketball legend Kobe Bryant has died. He was 41 years old. Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter, one of his four daughters, were among those killed in a helicopter crash this morning in Calabasas, Calif.

The Los Angeles County sheriff told reporters that nine people were on the flight. None survived. Bryant played his entire NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, a career that spanned 20 seasons, 18 of those as an NBA All-Star.

Joining us now to tell us more is NPR sports correspondent Tom Goldman. Tom, thanks so much for joining us. Hi, Michel.

Can you tell us any more about what happened? Well, as you mentioned, authorities are now saying nine people died in this helicopter crash.

Originally, the number was set at five. It happened this morning in Calabasas, Calif. - that's in Southern California - happened a little before 10 o'clock in the morning local time.

Now, officials held a news briefing. And officials would not confirm the identities of any of the victims at the press briefing. But they did say a helicopter pilot and eight other victims died.

The mayor of Calabasas confirmed to NPR that Kobe Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, who goes by the nickname Gigi, were among the victims.

The sheriff says they're waiting for the coroner's office to do its job, including notifying next of kin before confirming any of the identities.

And you were telling us earlier that there has been an enormous reaction to this very terrible news. Can - tell us a little bit about that.

Worldwide. You've got hundreds and hundreds who have gathered at the Staples Center in LA, where the Lakers play. You have, you know, just everyday fans. And you've got the rich and famous