Michael Jordan paid tribute to the late Kobe Bryant on Sunday after the 41-year-old Lakers legend and his teenage daughter were killed in a helicopter crash earlier in the day. 

“I am in shock over the tragic news of Kobe’s and Gianna’s passing,” Jordan said in a statement. “Words can’t describe the pain I’m feeling.”

Jordan was among the many stunned by the death of Bryant, who along with his 13-year-old daughter, was flying to his basketball facility in California.

There were no survivors in the crash authorities believe killed nine, and took place around 10 a.m. local time amid foggy conditions in the hills overlooking a suburb of Los Angeles.

Jordan, now the owner of the Charlotte Hornets, and Bryant are considered two of the best players in NBA history.

“I loved Kobe — he was like a little brother to me. We used to talk often, and I will miss the conversations very much,” Jordan said. “He was a fierce competitor, one of the greats of the game and a creative force.”

Bryant is survived by wife Vanessa and the couple’s three daughters: Natalia, 17; Bianka, 3; and Capri Kobe Bryant, born last June.

“Kobe was also an amazing dad who loved his family deeply — and took great pride in his daughter’s love for the game of basketball. [Jordan’s wife] Yvette joins me in sending my deepest condolences to Vanessa, the Lakers organization and basketball fans around the world.”