NBA and Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant announced his intentions to retire at the conclusion of the 2015-16 regular season, his 20th in the league, on Sunday evening via a poem released on “The Players’ Tribune,” and the NBA world reacted to the news of Bryant’s impending withdrawal from the game.
Many players, current and retired, took to social media to pay homage to Bryant, who has been a fixture in the Association for two decades.
Kobe is the greatest competitor I have ever faced. I am glad he’s found peace, I don’t know if we ll see another like him. Enjoy the last 66
— Shane Battier (@ShaneBattier) November 30, 2015
KB scored 56 on me in 3(!) qtrs my rookie year. Pushed me to be better more than any player I’ve faced. He has my ultimate hoops respect.
— Shane Battier (@ShaneBattier) November 30, 2015
Hard to believe @kobebryant is finally going to hang it up. One of the NBA’s great champions. Enjoy the rest of this season my friend. — Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) November 30, 2015
We have lived incredible moments together on and off the court. Thanks for everything brother! @kobebryant #ThankYouKobe — Pau Gasol (@paugasol) November 30, 2015
Much respect to @kobebryant as he announces his retirement after the season. A fierce competitor and one of the greatest to ever do it! — Eric Gordon (@TheofficialEG10) November 30, 2015
Thank you #kobe #koberetire pic.twitter.com/hu5KXVHiJt — Hassan Whiteside (@youngwhiteside) November 30, 2015
You loved the game @kobebryant and the game loved you back! Proud to know you and honored to have represented the #PurpleandGold together! — Rick Fox (@RickFox) November 30, 2015
Thank You @kobebryant!! #IncredibleRun — Mark Jackson (@MarkJackson13) November 30, 2015
Even those outside of the NBA world chimed in on Bryant’s decision to step away from the game.
Kobe been waiting his whole life to get them bars off. — Vince Staples (@vincestaples) November 30, 2015
Shout to @kobebryant on his illustrious career in the NBA! One of the greatest of all time…
— Lupe Fiasco (@LupeFiasco) November 30, 2015
One of the TRUE KINGS of the game. You are one the greatest to ever do it, my friend. #Kobe #BlackMamba #VinoClub https://t.co/Gn7DAB2src
— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) November 30, 2015
Nothing but tremendous respect and admiration for @kobebryant I have always been the biggest fan of his competitive drive. Thank you
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) November 30, 2015
