‘His commitment was unmatched’: Former NBA star Grant Hill reacts to Bryant’s death

ATLANTA — Former basketball star and minority Atlanta Hawks owner Grant Hill spoke with a heavy heart when he talked about the death of Kobe Bryant.

He told Channel 2 Action News they weren’t very close but had a mutual respect for one another.

"He was someone who poured his soul into basketball, with everything he had," Hill said.

Hill and Bryant played professional basketball against one another for several years.

Hill was so shook up about the death, he was at a loss for words when Channel 2’s Dave Huddleston asked what he would say to Bryant’s family.

"I don't know what to say. It's incredibly, incredibly sad," Hill said.

Grant, a two-time NCAA champion, spoke with Channel 2 Action News at B C Haynie Elementary in Clayton County on Monday, when he encouraged third graders to keep reading for the NCAA’s Read to the Final 4 Bracket Competition, an educational event to coincide with Atlanta hosting this year’s basketball tournament.

Hill didn't mention Bryant to the children, instead encouraging them to strive to do their best, the way Bryant did on the court.

“His commitment was unmatched. His accomplishments, his desire and continue to push to get the most out of himself out of his ability -- and he did," Hill said.

© 2020 Cox Media Group