Kobe Bryant and his wife, Vanessa, promised each other they would never fly on a helicopter together, according to reports.
It was a source who first told People about the couple's deal. That same source added that Kobe "only" ever flew with pilot Ara Zobayan, who was also killed in the crash, along with Kobe’s 13-year-old daughter Gianna and others.
Kobe preferred to travel by air because it allowed him to spend more time with his family. The idea came one day when he was stuck in traffic and missed a school play.
"I had to figure out a way where I could still train and focus on the craft but still not compromise family time," he said according to People.
As a family man, Kobe was always looking for ways to spend more quality time with his loved ones. He was not just an NBA player but also a proud father who saw his children as his greatest accomplishment.
"I’ve learned so much, but perhaps the most profound thing has been the fierce, unconditional love you have for your children when you become a parent," he previously said. "I’m blessed to have had that experience four times now and there’s nothing more powerful in this world."
A friend close to the family told People that Kobe was most looking forward to spending more time with his family upon retiring from the NBA in 2016.
"He was a very hands-on dad and, like any other father, saw such bright futures for all of his daughters," the source said. "He was so proud to see them take after not only him and Vanessa, but also grow into their own. He had a special bond with each of his daughters."
Kobe is survived by Vanessa and their daughters Natalia, 17, Bianka, 3, and Capri, born in June.
Zoe Papadakis ✉
Zoe Papadakis is a Newsmax writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience specializing in media and entertainment. She has been in the news industry as a reporter, writer and editor for newspapers, magazine and websites.
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