After what has been an amazing NBA career, Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers has decided that he will retire after this season. Since the late 90s, he has been one of the game’s best players, winning five championships along the way; however, in recent years, injuries have slowed him down. Within the past three seasons, he suffered a torn achilles that required surgery as well as a severe ankle sprain.  Regardless, he was able to perform at a very high level upon his return from those injuries, which only served as a testament to his greatness. At the age of 37, he seemed to be struggling at the beginning of this season, and it became evident that Father Time had finally caught up with Bryant. One could sense that the end was near for the Black Mamba due to the fact that his shooting and endurance struggles would not go away. Finally, this past Sunday, he publicly announced his retirement.

In the days since, there has been great support for Kobe and many have commented on his decision. Many have praised him, stating that he is one of the all-time greats in the game of basketball. Allen Iverson, who played against Bryant for many years, took to social media stating that he is one Kobe’s “biggest fans” and that he “always brought out the best in him.” Kyrie Irving, a point guard on the Cleveland Cavaliers, also commented, stating that while he tries to emulate Kobe, “there’s not going to be anyone like him.” Regardless of the outpouring of praise and support of others, many minds wondered about Kobe’s own thoughts and feelings about his decision. Before Bryant formally addressed these concerns, he expressed himself through writing. In his recent poem, “Dear Basketball,” he explains his love and passion for the game, but also that his body just knew it was time for him to call it a career and that he had “nothing else to give.” One thing is certain — whenever Jordan, Johnson, Malone, and other greats of the game are mentioned, Kobe will be in the field.