Glasgow Rocks will pay tribute to Kobe Bryant and Scottish basketballer Robert Archibald following their deaths this week.

News shook the world last night as it emerged basketball icon Kobe, who was 41, died alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna in a helicopter crash in Los Angeles. 

Nine people were on board the aircraft when it crashed near Calabasas - with no survivors. 

Tributes to the former LA Lakers star have flooded social media since.

His death was the second to hit Scottish basketball fans in a week, following the death of Robert Archibald.

READ MORE: Old Firm stars pay tribute to Kobe Bryant

The 39-year-old, from Paisley, earned fame and fortune after becoming the only Scot to ever make it all the way to NBA basketball in the US.

The London Olympics athlete, and a dad-of-one, was found dead at his home on Thursday.

Now, Scottish team Glasgow Rocks have revealed plans to pay tribute to the pair.

In a statement they said: "Like the rest of the Basketball world, Glasgow Rocks would like to express its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of both Robert Archibald and Kobe Bryant.

"Robert Archibald proved that it is possible to come from a small country like Scotland and achieve your goal.

"To be the only Scotsman to play in the NBA shows what can be achieved if you have the desire, humility and self-belief alongside undoubted ability. He will be sadly missed by all.

"The word Legend is often overused in sport, but for Kobe Bryant the word Legend is entirely appropriate.

READ MORE: Kobe Bryant killed in California helicopter crash

"His achievements are well documented, and his legacy will remain with us forever.

"It has been a dreadfully sad week for the world of Basketball.

"Both men had a significant impact and influence on both young and old, and on basketball fans, sport fans and the wider public."

The team will mark the passing of the two men with a minutes' applause at their next home match on Friday, January 31.