20 years a Laker: Farewell Kobe Bryant

Tonight basketball lovers everywhere will bid farewell to one of the greatest players to ever do it.  After 20 years of adorning purple and gold, Kobe Bryant will be playing his last game as a Los Angeles Laker against the Utah Jazz.

Back in November Kobe announced his decision to retire after suffering a few game changing injuries during his career.  The 37 year old Philly native was drafted in 1996 to the Charlotte Hornets, but was immediately traded to the LA Lakers were he spent his entire NBA career, and achieved 5 NBA championship titles.

Being only the 6^th player (at that time) to be drafted straight out of high school, Kobe astonished basketball fans with his tenacity and skill; qualities that definitely shaped Kobe’s success.

America applauded as the Laker rose to stardom, and also booed when he fell into temptation. (You may recall his rape charge scandal).  However, one thing remains certain, The Black Mamba has created a legacy like no other.  The respect he has attained from players, coaches, officials, and fans is unmatched. (Jordan is a close second).

Fans have traveled from across the globe to witness no. 24 play his last few games.  But tonight’s game will be subjected to an over pouring of emotions from us to him, and from him to us.

Racqui B.