On January 26, 2020, the legendary Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash. On the first anniversary of Kobe's death, Clippers coach Tyronn Lue paid tribute.
Director Lu said that he was still sad, especially when he watched Kobe’s past performances on TV. Coach Lu had been teammates with Kobe and won the championship together.
"I just want to break through this state. I don’t know how to face death. I always try to forget it. It’s difficult for me, especially with someone close to me... I put it in my room , All the paintings in the house are taken down, and I don’t have them in my office.”
After becoming the Clippers head coach, the assistant asked if he needed a photo of Guidance Lu and Kobe in the office. Guidance Lu refused.
"I have to overcome these because (he) is a great guy, a great man."
When Kobe and his daughter Jaina passed away last year, the Clippers were playing against the Magic in Orlando, Florida. Coach Lu was then an assistant coach under Doug Rivers.
Director Lu recalled that when he woke up during a nap on the match day, he found countless text messages and missed calls on his mobile phone. Seven of the missed calls came from assistant coach Sam Kassel. Director Lu then called Kassel and learned the shocking news.
"I turned on the TV, news radio was everywhere, there were only fire, smoke, only pictures (of the crashed helicopter). This was also being discussed on the TMZ sports channel. I just broke down."
Rivers said at the time During the game against the Magic, he turned and looked at Lu Zai, who was sitting on the bench, "howling."
"Until today, it is still very difficult. When you see them playing past game highlights, I don't want to watch it."
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