WORCESTER Wolves Basketball Academy will hold a minute's silence at training this evening to remember Kobe Bryant and his daughter who died in a helicopter accident yesterday morning.

The 41-year-old was on his way to his daughter Gianna's basketball match along with seven others when their helicopter crashed into a hillside in Calabasas, California, on Sunday.

There were no survivors on board with a college basketball coach and his family also among the dead.

The academy will pay their respects to the 'Black Mamba' at their training session at the University of Worcester Arena with a minute's silence at 8.24pm ­— the two numbers worn by Bryant during his 20-year career with the LA Lakers.

They shared a post from academy coach Will Brain, who also runs Malvern Mavericks, which read: "We would like to extend our condolences out to those affected by the helicopter crash in California, the tragic loss of a true legend and an icon to so many millions across the world and also the loss of his daughter Gianna ­— a bright young player who had so much to live for.

"They will be sorely missed!

"To show our respect we will be holding a minute's silence at 8.24pm tonight at the arena during the U17s/U18s training session.

"If any supporters, players young and old, would like to join us as well, you're very welcome. Basketball is a family near and far."

Tributes have been pouring in via social media over the last 24 hours across the globe including from the Worcester Wolves senior team who paid tribute to the sporting great on Facebook.

It said: "Yesterday we heard the very sad news of the passing of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna.

"Nine people in total lost their lives when the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in Calabasas, California.

"Our thoughts are with Kobe and Gianna’s family and the families of all those who tragically lost their lives."