Following the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and eight others in a horrible helicopter accident this past Sunday, we've seen many touching tributes to the NBA legend and the others victims of the crash. 

Lots of eyes fell on Kobe's close friend LeBron James, who had just passed Kobe for sole possession of third place on the NBA's all-time scoring ranks the day before the accident. 

After a day of understandable silence, James posted a heartbreaking goodbye to Instagram. 

 

 

 

I’m Not Ready but here I go. Man I sitting here trying to write something for this post but every time I try I begin crying again just thinking about you, niece Gigi and the friendship/bond/brotherhood we had! I literally just heard your voice Sunday morning before I left Philly to head back to LA. Didn’t think for one bit in a million years that would be the last conversation we’d have. WTF!! I’m heartbroken and devastated my brother!! 😢😢😢😢💔. Man I love you big bro. My heart goes to Vanessa and the kids. I promise you I’ll continue your legacy man! You mean so much to us all here especially #LakerNation💜💛 and it’s my responsibility to put this shit on my back and keep it going!! Please give me the strength from the heavens above and watch over me! I got US here! There’s so much more I want to say but just can’t right now because I can’t get through it! Until we meet again my brother!! #Mamba4Life❤️🙏🏾 #Gigi4Life❤️🙏🏾

A post shared by LeBron James (@kingjames) on

 

While we imagine Bron will only continue to honour his friend, in the Lakers' return to practice yesterday, he gave a subtle nod to Kobe by wearing his shoes. 

 

 

 

 A subtle and touching way to have Kobe with him on the court, and we imagine that Kobe's presence will be felt massively at tomorrow's Lakers game. 

(H/T: Bleacher Report)