LeBron James breaks silence following death of Kobe Bryant

LeBron James finally responded on Instagram Monday evening following the sudden death of Kobe Bryant.

For the first time since NBA legend Kobe Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash, Lebron James issued a statement on 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 s*** 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" kingjames/Instagram

James had just passed Bryant on NBA’s scoring list the day before the crash. He was a teenager when he first met Bryant at a youth basketball camp.