Kobe Bryant was “a chosen one” to Phil Jackson.

The legendary coach, who mentored Bryant for 11 seasons with the Lakers, delivered a tribute to his former player after the 41-year-old Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna were killed in a California helicopter crash on Sunday.

Authorities believe nine people were killed in the crash in Calabasas, Calif,. which is still being investigated. There were no survivors.

Bryant and Jackson won five NBA championship together, the last coming in the 2009-10 season.

“The crash was a tragedy for multiple families,” Jackson said through his agent Todd Musburger. “My heart goes out to Vanessa and the families that lost loved ones. Kobe was a chosen one-special in many ways to many people. Our relationship as coach/player transcended the norm. He went beyond the veil.”

Jackson joined many around the sports world, including former teammate Shaquille O’Neal to express their sadness, condolences and memories of Bryant.