Southern California Radio Stations Go Silent in Honor of Kobe Bryant
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Southern California radio stations are holding a moment of silence at noon to honor NBA legend Kobe Bryant, who died on Sunday.
The stations dedicated one minute and eight seconds of silence to Bryant. The eight extra seconds are a reference to his original jersey number.
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The Southern California Broadcasters Association gave specific instructions on how radio stations should approach coverage of the basketball player’s death — airing reminders “at least once every 30 minutes” — and how stations could sync up for the tribute.
“All stations in all markets are requested to participate,” the SCBA announced. “The following guidelines below will help each station prepare for this united front of silence for Kobe and what he meant to everyone in Southern California.”
The sports icon died on Sunday aboard his private helicopter when it crashed in Calabasas, Calif. Eight other people were confirmed dead, including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. They were all on their way to practice at Bryant’s Mamba Academy.
News of his sudden death sparked an outpouring of grief from celebrities and fans all over the world. The Grammys also had a moment of silence during the telecast, where several artists (including host Alicia Keys and Lizzo) paid tribute to Bryant and his daughter.
“We’re literally standing here, heartbroken, in the house that Kobe Bryant built,” Keys said. “Right now, Kobe and his daughter Gianna and all of those that have been tragically lost today are in our spirit, and our hearts and our prayers”
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