Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, who were among nine killed in a tragic January helicopter crash that also claimed the life of NBA great Kobe Bryant, were named honorary draft picks in Friday’s WNBA draft.
All three girls were 13 years old at the time of the helicopter crash that was headed to a basketball game at Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Sports Academy on Jan. 26.
The WNBA honors Alyssa Altobelli, Gianna Bryant and Payton Chester and makes them honorary draft picks at WNBA draft pic.twitter.com/wqsntNNzDe
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) April 17, 2020
After the honorary draft picks were announced Kobe Bryant’s widow Vanessa Bryant delivered a heartfelt message thanking the WNBA and congratulating the rest of the draftees.
Vanessa Bryant thanks the WNBA for making Gianna an honorary draft pick and sends a message to WNBA draftees pic.twitter.com/PAh4Vrg2KQ
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) April 17, 2020
So much feels.