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Kobe Bryant Reaches Out to Embattled College Hoops Player

Colorado State's Emmanuel Omogbo lost parents and twin niece and nephew in fire.

Emmanuel Omogbo is one tough person.

Two weeks ago on January 19, the Colorado State junior forward's parents and twin niece and nephew were tragically killed in a house fire in Maryland, as reported by ESPN.

Yet, a grieving Omogbo somehow gathered the strength to return to the team, getting a standing ovation in the Rams' home win over San Diego State last Wednesday that made national headlines.

Along the way, Omogbo's courage caught the attention of Kobe Bryant, who recorded a special, heartfelt video message for the embattled college junior Sunday.

"Emmanuel, what's going on? This is Kobe," the NBA legend says in the clip. "I just wanted to take the time to let you know that I'm thinking about you, you're in my prayers and will continue to be in my prayers. Your strength and courage is a true inspiration. I just wanted to tell you that I'm there for you, man, keep your head up and keep plugging away."

Omogbo definitely appreciated the sentiment, tweeting the video and thanking the Black Mamba.

And Bryant isn't the only one who has Omogbo's back.

Colorado State has set up an Omogbo Family Assistance Fund on GoFundMe.com, which has already raised $97,765 towards its $100,000 goal.

BET Sports News — Get the latest news and information about African-Americans in sports, including weekly recaps, celebrity news and photos of your favorite Black athletes.

 

(Photo: Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

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