Kobe: "Dear Basketball" #RetirementThread

[$LakerGold]

http://www.theplayerstribune.com/dear-basketball/

:(


You gave a six-year-old boy his Laker dream
And I’ll always love you for it.
But I can’t love you obsessively for much longer.
This season is all I have left to give.
My heart can take the pounding
My mind can handle the grind
But my body knows it’s time to say goodbye.

[Mr. Jabbar]

5 rings, 2 of them with pau gasol :lol , NOTHING ESLE TO PROVE. Torch passed to Curry. Go in peace Mamba, thanks for all these years! :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[stalkerforlife]

No

[Milbuck]

:(

[outbreak]

Sad seeing Kobe go. Kobe was one of those few players who could surpass bias and was just great to watch regardless of if you liked his team or not. Closest we've had to Jordan.

[STATUTORY]

ShakespeareBe writing in that idamic pentameter

:applause: :applause:

Put that to a beat and that's an all time track, NasBe is an amazing lyricst

[Trollsmasher]

sounds like he completly lost it

[truhooper]

Glad he's tired of embarrassing himself :confusedshrug:

[Cocaine80s]

https://images.rapgenius.com/6c8b328f53bb4f41d9b64183d1d10cdc.325x244x61.gif

[r0drig0lac]

legend

[brownmamba00]

Damn my eyes just got moist

[brandonislegend]

Damn.

[cranincu]

You know those videos of North Koreans grieving over Kim Jong Il's death and the subtitles are changed on what they say. Thats exactly how I feel about this.

[fragokota]

Good choice champ. Thanks for all the memories.

[Crimsonrain777]

i never had a problem with Kobe even though i'm a Heat fan.He'll always be considered one of the best players and he will boast a legacy when it's all said and done that only other all-time greats can hold a candle to. Farewell Kobe :cheers:

[GIF REACTION]

Top 15 player on most people's lists

A true trailblazer into the modern era

The epitome of excitement

The ectascy of thrill

The enigma that was the Black Mamba

5 rings

2 FMVPS

1 MVP

A legacy that commands top 15 respect

I'll never forget you Kobe

I'll never forget the popularity you brought to bricklaying

JKS

Love you little kobe. You're in mine and majority of everyone's top 15 list. The resume speaks for itself.

LONG LIVE, THE BLACK MAMBA!

[MEB2kDeez]

:applause: ...:bowdown:

....

:(

[Dr Hawk]

You had a great run Kobe. Sad to see you go :(

[STATUTORY]

Kobe crashed the site

[ISHGoat]

Top 15 player on most people's lists

A true trailblazer into the modern era

The epitome of excitement

The ectascy of thrill

The enigma that was the Black Mamba

5 rings

2 FMVPS

1 MVP

A legacy that commands top 15 respect

I'll never forget you Kobe

I'll never forget the popularity you brought to bricklaying

JKS

Love you little kobe. You're in mine and majority of everyone's top 15 list. The resume speaks for itself.

LONG LIVE, THE BLACK MAMBA!

Couldn't have said it better myself. Hats off to a top 15 career. Truly one of the best to ever lace them up.

[TemporaMutantur]

:applause:

This may be the end of his NBA career, but screaming KOBEEEEEEEE whenever you're about to take that questionable shot will live on forever.

[TylerOO]

Where's his last game?

[brownmamba00]

:applause:

This may be the end of his NBA career, but screaming KOBEEEEEEEE whenever you're about to take that questionable shot will live on forever.
QFT

[Milbuck]

Top 15 player on most people's lists

A true trailblazer into the modern era

The epitome of excitement

The ectascy of thrill

The enigma that was the Black Mamba

5 rings

2 FMVPS

1 MVP

A legacy that commands top 15 respect

I'll never forget you Kobe

I'll never forget the popularity you brought to bricklaying

JKS

Love you little kobe. You're in mine and majority of everyone's top 15 list. The resume speaks for itself.

LONG LIVE, THE BLACK MAMBA!
:applause:

[ROCSteady]

At home against Utah

[ArbitraryWater]

Truly one of the 15 greatest players ever :applause:

[Batz]

Mamba :(

[TylerOO]

Im planning a trip to LA right now for that April 13th game. To be in that arena, that night would be unforgettable.

[DMAVS41]

Really wish these last 3 years had gone differently, but what a legendary career.

He will be missed...

Hopefully this announcement kind of takes the pressure off and maybe he can have some throw back games the rest of the way...would be fun to watch.

[GIF REACTION]

Couldn't have said it better myself. Hats off to a top 15 career. Truly one of the best to ever lace them up.
He really speaks for himself. It's in the title. Top 15. He's one of the top 15 players to ever bounce the the ball. Despite all his short-comings, he overcame the doubters.. the neighsayers... the haters... He IS a top 15 player. Respect

[STATUTORY]

Hold this L you ball hogging, chucking, rapist. I AM LAUGHING AT YOU KOBE. THE ENTIRE LEBRON FAMILY IS.

:biggums:

[JT123]

While I'm happy he will finally stop embarrassing himself and making a mockery of the sport, announcing this now seems kind of tacky. It's like he's saying "screw the Lakers, the rest of this season is about me. Give all the attention and appreciation to me!" :rolleyes:

[MidRange]

Crazy, end of an era.

[J Shuttlesworth]

All hating/trolling aside, I'll miss Kobe being in the league. Generally, a player only gets that much hate/controversy because they are great.

[fos]

Honestly though, in all seriousness, rape is about to go up.

[Lebronxrings]

dude is such a drama queen. He needs all the spotlight on him.

Just retire now, you loser beta.

[stalkerforlife]

Easily the 2nd best player of all time.

But you're a sucker if you think he's retiring.

[bobopenguin]

Legend. :applause:

[inclinerator]

he's retiring now? or at the end of the season

[IllegalD]

Hold this L you ball hogging, chucking, rapist. I AM LAUGHING AT YOU KOBE. THE ENTIRE LEBRON FAMILY IS.

2-4, b*tch. :lol

The entire ISH family is laughing at you for being an anime-loving, waifu-pillow humping loser. :roll:

Stay mad being a fan of a pathetic franchise who only serves as a farm team for legitimate franchises like the Lakers who will always shit all over your Magic.

Here's a little trip down memory lane:

http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view/446947/kobe-amazing-shot-vs-magic-o.gif

http://45.media.tumblr.com/8558c15aa903c391d37385c88552f681/tumblr_mrwwoz7eRF1qcmnsoo1_400.gif

http://mit.zenfs.com/207/2011/06/ShaqJ.jpg

[smoovegittar]

The best since Jordan. End of an era. One of my fav players... respect.

[Akrazotile]

[QUOTE]You gave a six-year-old boy his Laker dream
And I

[JT123]

Im planning a trip to LA right now for that April 13th game. To be in that arena, that night would be unforgettable.
You can't seriously think he's gonna last that long. Don't waste your money

[Bobcats2013]

When I a toss something from 30 into a trash bag, I'm always gonna say "KOBEEEE"

bean your legacy will live on.

[JohnMax]

I used to be one of these irrational Kobe haters but saw the light in time.

[Heavincent]

http://i.imgur.com/0xAW6Ig.gif

[magmo68]

****k

[ballinhun8]

Such a sad sad day.


One of the last true old school players whom most of this boards old heads (including me) grew up watching and missed the way the game was.


Truly a sad sad day. Gotta hole he plays in Boston when they come here because I'm going.

#Legend

[fiddy]

Hold this L you ball hogging, chucking, rapist. I AM LAUGHING AT YOU KOBE. THE ENTIRE LEBRON FAMILY IS.
Stfu you sorry excuse of a human being, ive watched Kobe play when you were nothing but a сum stain on the floor, while your mom was trying to scrape you off. No wonder your dads hates you, he didnt want your stupid ass in the first place.


Truly one of the 10 greatest players ever :applause:
fxd, Bran aint making top 10 as of right now

[TylerOO]

You can't seriously think he's gonna last that long. Don't waste your money

He'll do it KG style, playing once a week maybe. He'll lace up for the final game in Los Angeles. When he subs out for last time, it will be an amazing moment. Tears.

[JT123]

dude is such a drama queen. He needs all the spotlight on him.

Just retire now, you loser beta.
Dude is the biggest attention whore I've ever seen. By the time next season rolls around I can already see him critiquing games via social media, making retarded comments on a nightly basis to try and keep his name relevant.

[$LakerGold]

April 14 was the day Kobe hit 2 game-winning shots against Portland's self-proclaimed "Kobe Stopper" Ruben Patterson. April 13 will be his last home game.

Just saying. :(

[WorldWarriors]

Never been a fan of Kobe but I will never deny his greatness. It took everything he had to come to terms with his present state. Will miss him but its clearly time to move on. I wish him nothing but the best. He's beloved everywhere so where ever they play he is sure to get a standing ovation and a lot of love. Thanks for the memories.

[Heavincent]

This man was my childhood, along with Vince, Kidd, Nash, Garnett, Iverson, Shaq, etc.

And now they'll all gone.

[Draz]

Well, he gave us all he could. As fans of basketball, he's going to be missed on the court, his name was a brand alone. True competitor. They don't make them like this anymore boys.

[$LakerGold]

It's so depressing that I just want to think that at least he's alive & he's not completely gone -- just to make myself feel better. :facepalm :roll:


The TNT crew is about to get $$$$$$$ with Shaq & Kobe once again. Let it happen for a month, please. I wanna hear them crack jokes, that would be sweet.

[$LakerGold]

This man was my childhood, along with Vince, Kidd, Nash, Garnett, Iverson, Shaq, etc.

And now they'll all gone.
That 2000's era. H*ly shit. Irreplaceable.

[Jameerthefear]

My little bitches flocking to me :yaohappy:
Rent's free.

[Rocketswin2013]

So he's not retiring immediately? That's disappointing. It's ****ing painful watching this guy embarrass himself out there. And I don't even like him that much.

[Cocaine80s]

Honestly i was hoping he stayed for 4-5 more years.


When i make the league I want to score on him a few times

[Young X]

I've been watching this dude for so long, it's hard to imagine the league without his presence. I'm thankful for the enjoyment he brought us throughout the years. All those late nights watching the Lakers play, the championships they won, all the explosive dunks, crossovers, fadeaways, gamewinners and all the impossible shots only he could make were appreciated.

Hopefully he can avoid any major injuries and have a more graceful finish to the season. Maybe we can get one more Kobe/Lebron duel.

F*CK anyone who's in this thread trolling too, this man is a legend, show some respect.

[JohnFreeman]

should have done this a couple of years back

[$LakerGold]

playerstribune's broken. lol

[ballinhun8]

You can definitely tell the age of posters in this thread.


Ones that are mature enough to compliment a great career and ones that are naive and too immature to give credit where its due.

[AirTupac]

End of an era. Cant believe the NBA will be Kobe-less. I grew up with Kobe in the NBA. Literally.

[T_L_P]

For a second I thought he just announced his retirement (like, he's not playing another game), and it felt really, really weird.

I'm sure a lot of people are going to make an extra effort to go see him now that there's an end date. He'll get ovations in each arena.

[Jameerthefear]

Honestly i was hoping he stayed for 4-5 more years.


When i make the league I want to score on him a few times
You would have went to ****ing work on that dude :oldlol:

[Segatti]

If you didn't like watching Kobe playing, you didn't like NBA basketball. Legend. :bowdown: :bowdown: :applause: :applause:

[CelticBaller]

Good riddance

[KCO]

He will be missed, my favorite player of all time. Thank you for the memories Kobe. It was time for him to go to be honest.

[Meticode]

Brian Windhorst made a great comment. Since 2007 LeBron and Kobe has been to every NBA Finals and never met in one. History that never happened. :(

[JT123]

Brian Windhorst made a great comment. Since 2007 LeBron and Kobe has been to every NBA Finals and never met in one. History that never happened. :(
The only year they both played on great teams was 2011, but as usual Kobe came up small. :(

[gcvbcat]

this is bullshit man, kobe should have waited till the end of the season. he can still contribute, mother****er just not as the main man. **** this man, guys like PP & KG are still in the league, kobe playing a lesser role can contribute more than those mother****ers.

**** it, kobe, unretire yourself mother****er, ****, asshole.

**** this shit man.

[WallIn]

Expected

[ballinhun8]

The only year they both played on great teams was 2011, but as usual Kobe came up small. :(


Back to back 60 win teams tho?

[JT123]

Back to back 60 win teams tho?
Lottery team the second Bron left tho

[LoneyROY7]

Wow.

[ROCSteady]

Hold this L you ball hogging, chucking, rapist. I AM LAUGHING AT YOU KOBE. THE ENTIRE LEBRON FAMILY IS.

I'm considering contracting syphilis purposefully just to piss in your eye socket after I rip out your ojo.

[G0ATbe]

https://media.giphy.com/media/haMlEKMZl6GZi/giphy.gif

[AirTupac]

I'm considering contracting syphilis purposefully just to piss in your eye socket after I rip out your ojo.

Just go to his house, his mom has it. Kill 2 birds with 1 stone that way.

[Segatti]

Let's just ignore the haters, it's not worth it. What's your favorite Kobe dunk? I personally love the poster on Okafor

http://i.imgur.com/1MGuvdx.jpg

[SpaceJam]

Dude is the biggest attention whore I've ever seen. By the time next season rolls around I can already see him critiquing games via social media, making retarded comments on a nightly basis to try and keep his name relevant.

Lucky you're here to keep him relevant, the Kobe family thanks you for your contribution

But on a serious note, he has been bad, but it's still sad for one of my childhood favorites to retire

[IMObjective]

The only year they both played on great teams was 2011, but as usual Kobe came up small. :(
STFU and let the man and his fans enjoy(?) the moment. Give it a rest for a few hours, please.

I was actually sadder the night he went down with the Achilles. I guess I knew deep down that was it for the version of Kobe we all knew and loved.

Thanks for the memories Kobe, I'll always be a kobetard.

[WallIn]

Baptizing Dwight :oldlol:

[CavaliersFTW]

Kobe is one of the greatest players to EVER play the game.

God damn, it was only a few years ago he was a nucleus of b2b championships. How quickly time goes by :(

[Rocketswin2013]

STFU and let the man and his fans enjoy(?) the moment. Give it a rest for a few hours, please.

I was actually sadder the night he went down with the Achilles. I guess I knew deep down that was it for the version of Kobe we all knew and loved.

Thanks for the memories Kobe, I'll always be a kobetard.
Do you know what forum you are posting on?

[LoneyROY7]

Oh, lol.

I didn't read it...I thought he was retiring right now. :lol

[$LakerGold]

I loved the baseline dunk against the PHX Suns can be seen here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E__D4QcJC68

[$LakerGold]

Dear Basketball

[jaydacris]

is his poem better than this poster's poem?

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?t=46701

[GIF REACTION]

is his poem better than this poster's poem?

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?t=46701
:roll: :roll:

[catch24]

One of the all-time greats. Legend. Top 8-10 depending what you value.

Thank you for the memories, KB24. :cheers:


Do you know what forum you are posting on?

If you're a basketball fan you give credit where its due. Justifying trolling is lame.

[Smoke117]

Oh, lol.

I didn't read it...I thought he was retiring right now. :lol

He should just retire now...by the end of the of the season he will have had such a joke of a season that, that is all people will be able to think about. Then again, he will probably get hurt mid way through the season and retire.

[JebronLames]

2nd most overrated player of all time

[Milbuck]

Let's just ignore the haters, it's not worth it. What's your favorite Kobe dunk? I personally love the poster on Okafor
http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/social_assets/nba/KobeBryantDUnkWizards.gif

http://cdn.makeagif.com/media/4-16-2014/8zeAf_.gif

http://49.media.tumblr.com/1ca44a80330f36a8614fb0db4ebb55fd/tumblr_mw6i035HYk1rgx7ico1_400.gif


http://45.media.tumblr.com/8558c15aa903c391d37385c88552f681/tumblr_mrwwoz7eRF1qcmnsoo1_400.gif

https://media0.giphy.com/media/wBinWj2KeD0Wc/200.gif

[Jameerthefear]

He should just retire now...by the end of the of the season he will have had such a joke of a season that, that is all people will be able to think about. Then again, he will probably get hurt mid way through the season and retire.
Would be funny if he tore his ACL or something, lol.

[Prime_Shaq]

This is sad. He was THE Jordan fan. Literally did everything he could to be placed up there with him.

Great career.
Amazing highlights.
Formed the best 1-2 punch the league has ever seen.
Scoring genius.
MVP.

Above all that, 5 time NBA Champion. Thank you for all the good times Kobe, you will be missed. :bowdown:

[CJ Mustard]

Sad day. As annoying as Kobe/Laker fans have been over the years, I will admit this: Kobe might be a top 35-50 player ever. A truly great career has come to an end.

[ISHGoat]

Sad day. As annoying as Kobe/Laker fans have been over the years, I will admit this: Kobe might be a top 35-50 player ever. A truly great career has come to an end.
:applause: :applause: :applause:

[DavisIsMyUniBro]

An absolute legend.

Its sad that there are still 10 year olds here trying to bring him down

He will be remembered as one of the greats obviously.

Arguably one, if not the, most storied careers in the nba

Its been a hell of a ride

[#number6ix#]

Damn I don't know the NBA without Kobe... I started really watching and understanding the game in 1996 and Kobe's been there every step of the way... This shit is sad for real

[Twiens]

Legend. :( :( :(

[SpaceJam]

Would be funny if he tore his ACL or something, lol.

Would be funny? You are an absolute sh^t poster

[PJR]

Sad day. As annoying as Kobe/Laker fans have been over the years, I will admit this: Kobe might be a top 35-50 player ever. A truly great career has come to an end.

Ditto

[Beastmode88]

dude is such a drama queen. He needs all the spotlight on him.

Just retire now, you loser beta.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHSLw8DLm20

[Ai2death]

Gotta respect the man, thanks for all the memories Kobe. Top 12 GOAT.

Enjoy his play while we can guys.

[$LakerGold]

I think CJ Mcollum triggered it with all that "I look up to you since I was a kid." b.s.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[DaRkJaWs]

Im planning a trip to LA right now for that April 13th game. To be in that arena, that night would be unforgettable.
ROFL nice waste of a ticket breh, he'll be injured and out for the season long before then :roll: :roll: :roll:

[Akhenaten]

https://33.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mcu6y4eJhT1r0jlbgo2_400.gif

[Angel Face]

You gotta respect what this guy has done on the court. One of the most exciting players to watch in his prime. One of the last old school mentality players.

:applause:

[TheMarkMadsen]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20martin_zpsoo2xhlui.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20martin_zpsoo2xhlui.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20with%20them%20souls_zps17obvslt.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20with%20them%20souls_zps17obvslt.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20soul%20taker%20part%202_zpsds1sbpfo.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20soul%20taker%20part%202_zpsds1sbpfo.gif.htm l)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20suns_zpsglqss1px.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20suns_zpsglqss1px.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20takes%20souls%20from%20minny_zpsfqt8ov8l.gi f (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20takes%20souls%20from%20minny_zpsfqt8ov8l.gi f.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20port_zpsiwouyusi.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20port_zpsiwouyusi.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20left_zpszsbm5ioa.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20left_zpszsbm5ioa.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20spurs_zpsybmgsjq9.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20spurs_zpsybmgsjq9.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/KobeoverJordangif_zps7134594b.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/KobeoverJordangif_zps7134594b.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/kobeupandundercomplete_zps5d4b68e3.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/kobeupandundercomplete_zps5d4b68e3.gif.html)

[TheMarkMadsen]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/kobe-fadeaway-on-lebron-o_zpsiyma0kbc.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/kobe-fadeaway-on-lebron-o_zpsiyma0kbc.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/kobe-bryant-dancin-on-lebron-o_zps5umrkfj5.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/kobe-bryant-dancin-on-lebron-o_zps5umrkfj5.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20wade_zpsxrerl2iu.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20wade_zpsxrerl2iu.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20pump_zpsxzdglcxb.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20pump_zpsxzdglcxb.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20spin_zpskd9yvnai.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20spin_zpskd9yvnai.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20skill_zpselj5rku0.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20skill_zpselj5rku0.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20fader_zpszzdwzkkz.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20fader_zpszzdwzkkz.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20geez_zpsgh39no9q.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20geez_zpsgh39no9q.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20footwork_zpsfqqyf8pn.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20footwork_zpsfqqyf8pn.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif.html)

[HenryGarfunkle]

Who cares? :oldlol:

We already knew this. Kobe's going out literally on bottom. He's the worst player in the league.

There's a ton of young guys right now who look better than Kobe ever was, so we're not missing much with him gone.

He collected his 48 million dollars and is leaving the NBA with his tail between his legs. Sacrificed dignity for money. Congrats, Kobe. :applause:

Not paying any respect to his career, the 2004 rape scandal was enough for me to hold a lifetime grudge against this guy.

[ROCSteady]

The MOST SKILLED PLAYER THIS MILLENNIUM will be leaving us soon.


Time for y'all to reflect

[Smoke117]

The thing I will most remember about Kobe is how the little bitch rat threw Shaq under the bus when he got caught cheating with an ugly white chick.

[coin24]

Thanks for the memories:cheers: sad to see him retire but it's obviously time, the body can only take so much..
Been watching him play since his rookie season, the league won't be the same..

[Nick Young]

GOAT Poem
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iY9HjNWbJvA
:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[Jameerthefear]

Who cares? :oldlol:

We already knew this. Kobe's going out literally on bottom. He's the worst player in the league.

There's a ton of young guys right now who look better than Kobe ever was, so we're not missing much with him gone.

He collected his 48 million dollars and is leaving the NBA with his tail between his legs. Sacrificed dignity for money. Congrats, Kobe. :applause:

Not paying any respect to his career, the 2004 rape scandal was enough for me to hold a lifetime grudge against this guy.
:oldlol: Same. Lol at all the betas in this thread :oldlol:

[$LakerGold]

Dwight...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jamZf5u5jCw

[Prime_Shaq]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif[/URL]
That's cool

[Akhenaten]

Farewell human X button

[$LakerGold]

http://i.imgur.com/JdFbOci.png :roll:

[HOoopCityJones]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif

Touch acts to follow.

End of an Era. Thanks for 20 years of of Basketball.

[Cold soul]

The End of an era. This sucks Kobe been my favorite athlete since John Elway. I grew up with him during my childhood he will be missed by many the last of old school players dying breed thanks for all the memories.

[brownboyfly]

Shit won't be the same without the Black Mamba.


http://cdn.makeagif.com/media/3-16-2015/bmeJzI.gif

[TheBigVeto]

Weak poem. 1/14.

[BigNBAfan]

I was ~8 years old when he joined the NBA and i didn't start watching until i was 10 or 11. Guy's been in the league as long as i can remember.

I expect all teams to retire his jersey. I'm pretty sure he holds some record in each stadium.

[Young X]

Real Kobe fans know #8 > #24

Young, athletic, rocking the afro with those ugly but classic Adidas shoes.

Just look at this shit

https://media0.giphy.com/media/wBinWj2KeD0Wc/200.gif

[$LakerGold]

I loved #8, but then #24 grew on me. He was still so raw when he wore #8. #24 felt like he was more complete as a player.

[Nuff Said]

Heat fans love Kobe nor always brought the best out of Wade. Gonna miss you big dog.

[BasedTom]

:(

...it's going to be weird as fck next year not seeing kobe on an nba team. fck man we're getting old

[Smoke117]

Already 0/4...kobrick :bowdown:

[4 Inches]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-aiwrQalBs
http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view/159055/kobe-salute-o.gif
All trolling aside let me pay my repsects to one of the greatest players to ever play the game

[Smoke117]

er...0/5....:roll: :roll: :roll:

[Town's Town]

We already knew Kobe was retiring. This announcement was just so people would pay more attention to him because his paid documentary crew was not garnering enough attention for his final season.

[Relinquish]

This man was my childhood, along with Vince, Kidd, Nash, Garnett, Iverson, Shaq, etc.

And now they'll all gone.

Not Garnett

[$LakerGold]

Not Garnett
Vince

[Relinquish]

Vince

Lol true, didn't even think about him

[Graviton]

Respect to one of the greatest players in NBA history. :applause:

I know everyone despises Kobe stans, and that anger redirects towards Kobe, but he isn't responsible for those obnoxious fanatics. So just set your hate aside and appreciate the years of entertainment Kobe gave us, he transcended basketball, people worldwide knew of him even if they never followed or watched basketball.



https://49.media.tumblr.com/892722162948f94b946328d5a48a363d/tumblr_mkj32uEBTB1rjlzwwo1_500.gif

[Derka]

Celtics fan here that will be glad to not have to face him ever again...but will tell my kids about him with deserved reverence all the same, just like my old man told me about Magic and Kareem.

[Prime_Shaq]

Celtics fan here that will be glad to not have to face him ever again...but will tell my kids about him with deserved reverence all the same, just like my old man told me about Magic and Kareem.
Some rivalries never die :applause:

[$LakerGold]

Lol true, didn't even think about him
:D

[$LakerGold]

Note: Kobe tweeted it at 6:52pm EST

[kayla91]

Was never a Kobe fan but as a #TrueBasketball fan, one MUST RESPECT what he brought to the hardwood.

Enjoy Retirement Kobe and make sure to Reach One, Teach One! :applause: :applause:

[Combat Wombat]

er...0/5....:roll: :roll: :roll:

Grow up you stupid child.

And if you can't do that, share a bottle of bleach with Jaqueer.

[SamuraiSWISH]

Once again copying Mike

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?t=63754

[ThatCoolKid]

:lol Emobe writing poetry and shit.

Gay :facepalm

[$LakerGold]

Dear Basketball, I airballed a game-tying 3.

Love, Kobe.

[RoundMoundOfReb]

Once again copying Mike

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?t=63754
Epic.

[RRR3]

Sad to see a living legend announce his retirement is imminent. Hopefully he can manage to be decent for the rest of the year and go out on a relatively high note.

Never liked Kobe much, but there's no denying he's one of the best players to ever step on a basketball court and will be remembered forever.

[RoundMoundOfReb]

In all seriousness, this is legitimately pretty saddening. I remember watching the 3-peat Lakers as a kid, and playing NBA Kobe Bryant courtside on my N64 like it was yesterday. Him and Carter were my two favorite players coming up.

Great player, but it's time.

[Showtime2001]

Who cares? :oldlol:

We already knew this. Kobe's going out literally on bottom. He's the worst player in the league.

There's a ton of young guys right now who look better than Kobe ever was, so we're not missing much with him gone.

He collected his 48 million dollars and is leaving the NBA with his tail between his legs. Sacrificed dignity for money. Congrats, Kobe. :applause:

Not paying any respect to his career, the 2004 rape scandal was enough for me to hold a lifetime grudge against this guy.
meltdown.

:lol

[Megabox!]

TBH Kobe already retired like 2 years ago.

[Cold soul]

Celtics fan here that will be glad to not have to face him ever again...but will tell my kids about him with deserved reverence all the same, just like my old man told me about Magic and Kareem.


Well said respect. :applause:

[Springsteen]

I have to admit, I was kinda glad Kobe fell off these past couple of years because it felt so good beating the Lakers after he blasted the Spurs countless times.

As much I hated the guy, he torched us year after year. No one on the Spurs could stop him. And he dunked on Timmy D more times than you could count.

Gonna miss him. :(

[TheOne]

Kobe will retire for 2 seasons then come back for another 3-peat and overtake Mike as the #1GOAT

[Nash]

I saw him drop 50 once. Will never forget it.

Wonder whats next for him? He too respectful to act like a fool on TV. I bet he will stay with the Lakers.

[PsychoBe]

i was a huge kings fan back in the day, and a blazers fan as well. when kobe and shaq and the lakers beat both of my teams down iwas so bitter, so angry that i literally stopped closely following basketball for years. then i came back and saw how great the celtics were doing and i was so happy when the big 3 and rondo beat kobe and the lakers (rondo was the reason why i started watching basketball again).

but then kobe came back and beat the celtics, and after all of that i just couldn't hate him anymore. i admired him, i respected him, and i came to realize that there was no need to hate on him. he was simply great. and that all there was to it.

thank you for your time and dedication godbe. :bowdown:

[HighFlyer23]

Kobe is gay

[TheMilkyBarKid]

:applause: one of the greats, still reckon we will get a few more vintage scoring outbursts before all is done.

[Gus Hemmingway]

It's alright
to tell me
what you think
You're Kobe.
I won't try
to argue
or hold it
against you
I know that
you're leaving
you must have
your reasons
The season
is calling
and your jumpers
aren't falling

[ImKobe]

I have to admit, I was kinda glad Kobe fell off these past couple of years because it felt so good beating the Lakers after he blasted the Spurs countless times.

As much I hated the guy, he torched us year after year. No one on the Spurs could stop him. And he dunked on Timmy D more times than you could count.

Gonna miss him. :(

haha, Kobe will always be known for destroying the Spurs so many times and preventing them from winning at least 3 more titles. 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008...4 out of the last 5 series Kobe destroyed the Spurs and sent them home early in the POs :pimp:

[HenryGarfunkle]

It's alright
to tell me
what you think
You're Kobe.
I won't try
to argue
or hold it
against you
I know that
you're leaving
you must have
your reasons
The season
is calling
and your jumpers
aren't falling
:roll: :roll: :roll:

[Mr Feeny]

i was a huge kings fan back in the day, and a blazers fan as well. when kobe and shaq and the lakers beat both of my teams down iwas so bitter, so angry that i literally stopped closely following basketball for years. then i came back and saw how great the celtics were doing and i was so happy when the big 3 and rondo beat kobe and the lakers (rondo was the reason why i started watching basketball again).

but then kobe came back and beat the celtics, and after all of that i just couldn't hate him anymore. i admired him, i respected him, and i came to realize that there was no need to hate on him. he was simply great. and that all there was to it.

thank you for your time and dedication godbe. :bowdown:

You're 18. You were 3 when you were "disappointed they beat "your" blazers"...

[Mr Feeny]

sounds like he completly lost it

:roll: :applause:

[Mr Feeny]

Dude is the biggest attention whore I've ever seen. By the time next season rolls around I can already see him critiquing games via social media, making retarded comments on a nightly basis to try and keep his name relevant.
:lol

[ace23]

Damn.

I feel like he'll be back, though.

[AirFederer]

Kind of a sad day when an ATG decides to hang 'em up. Should have done it 3 years ago but thats Kobe and his mentality. I always thought he had the ability to play a more balanced and efficient game but very often his mind set (wanting to be the Man) got the better of him. Amazing athlete. Still, he has 5 rings that he was a big part of, and he could score at will for years.
Top 15-20 player in my book and thats no disrespect.

It will be interesting to see what he will do with his time in the future. Best of luck!

[Mr Feeny]

Kind of a sad day when an ATG decides to hang 'em up. Should have done it 3 years ago but thats Kobe and his mentality. I always thought he had the ability to play a more balanced and efficient game but very often his mind set (wanting to be the Man) got the better of him. Amazing athlete. Still, he has 5 rings that he was a big part of, and he could score at will for years.
Top 15-20 player in my book and thats no disrespect.

It will be interesting to see what he will do with his time in the future. Best of luck!

Agree. Probably 17th best all time if we are being fair. Fairwell and thanks for the memories Kobo:cheers: :applause:

[DoctorP]

Way to announce your retirement in November, Kobe. #attentionbe

[TheImmortal]

http://i.imgur.com/g0iFZaW.gif

[TheImmortal]

I've been watching this dude for so long, it's hard to imagine the league without his presence. I'm thankful for the enjoyment he brought us throughout the years. All those late nights watching the Lakers play, the championships they won, all the explosive dunks, crossovers, fadeaways, gamewinners and all the impossible shots only he could make were appreciated.

Hopefully he can avoid any major injuries and have a more graceful finish to the season. Maybe we can get one more Kobe/Lebron duel.

F*CK anyone who's in this thread trolling too, this man is a legend, show some respect.
Well said bro. :applause: :cry:

[Alan Ogg]

Legendary player. Sucks to see him go out like he is. I wish more players would hang it up before the massive decline. It certainly doesn't help his legacy.

[TheImmortal]

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/kobe-fadeaway-on-lebron-o_zpsiyma0kbc.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/kobe-fadeaway-on-lebron-o_zpsiyma0kbc.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/kobe-bryant-dancin-on-lebron-o_zps5umrkfj5.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/kobe-bryant-dancin-on-lebron-o_zps5umrkfj5.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20wade_zpsxrerl2iu.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20wade_zpsxrerl2iu.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20pump_zpsxzdglcxb.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20pump_zpsxzdglcxb.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20spin_zpskd9yvnai.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20spin_zpskd9yvnai.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20skill_zpselj5rku0.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20skill_zpselj5rku0.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20geez_zpsgh39no9q.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20fader_zpszzdwzkkz.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20footwork_zpsfqqyf8pn.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20footwork_zpsfqqyf8pn.gif.html)
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e246/J_K/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif (http://s40.photobucket.com/user/J_K/media/Kobe%20magic_zpssdl5nbeg.gif.html)
Delivered..


That pirouette doe..


http://i.imgur.com/zS35ves.gif

Gawdly..

[Mr Feeny]

Delivered..


That pirouette doe..


http://i.imgur.com/zS35ves.gif

Gawdly..

Nothing on LeTHICK tbf.

[Kawhi]

Byron thought he had another season in him. :roll:

[SexSymbol]

A legendary player, my favorite player.
It's gonna be a very sad last game that i will be watching no matter what even if it will be 5 AM here in Lithuania where I live.
Man is a legend of the highest order, one of the very best player ever, top 5-7 range, amazing career.
And to be honest, he's the second biggest star to lace them up, the whole world will mourn the day he retires

[Dragonyeuw]

Seemed like yesterday watching a young, spry 'Frobe' teasing us with precocious talent and 360 degree dunks. Honestly I wish he had just retired after the Achilles injury, would have been much better seeing him go out when he was still playing top 10 caliber basketball.

[Haymaker]

From a Spurs fan, thank you Kobe. You crushed our dreams for a couple of seasons, and that made us better. You're a legend. Enjoy your money/family/health/accomplishments/fame. :applause:

[Mr Feeny]

Seemed like yesterday watching a young, spry 'Frobe' teasing us with precocious talent and 360 degree dunks. Honestly I wish he had just retired after the Achilles injury, would have been much better seeing him go out when he was still playing top 10 caliber basketball.

This.

Unfortunately he's hurting our eyes instead subjecting us to that train wreck out there. 30%fg. Going down in the worst way possible. I still remember Kobe stans mocking Jordan back in 2003 in his last year. I always said "what goes around comes around" but I didn't expect THIS.

This is just grotesque.

[SexSymbol]

This.

Unfortunately he's hurting our eyes instead subjecting us to that train wreck out there. 30%fg. Going down in the worst way possible. I still remember Kobe stans mocking Jordan back in 2003 in his last year. I always said "what goes around comes around" but I didn't expect THIS.

This is just grotesque.
you're wasting your time

[Mr Feeny]

you're wasting your time

So are you.

[SexSymbol]

So are you.
touche, but it's very fun to make fun of you, because you can't construct an intelligent sentence without using more than your vocabulary has, so there's no chance of a backfire.
You're weak.

[SpanishACB]

when you love someone, you put him first, before even yourself.

Kobe does the opposite

[Mr Feeny]

touche, but it's very fun to make fun of you, because you can't construct an intelligent sentence without using more than your vocabulary has, so there's no chance of a backfire.
You're weak.

It's much more fun watching you melting down :lebronamazed:

Kobrick giving us lovely final memories these days:rockon:

[tobethdope]

nice, so how long until lebold retires and the other group of retards moves away?

[SpanishACB]

:applause:

This may be the end of his NBA career, but screaming KOBEEEEEEEE whenever you're about to take that questionable shot will live on forever.

kids in europe do this

[HOoopCityJones]

From a Spurs fan, thank you Kobe. You crushed our dreams for a couple of seasons, and that made us better. You're a legend. Enjoy your money/family/health/accomplishments/fame. :applause:

Crushed your hopes in 08 too. At least a trio of ass fuccery

[$LakerGold]

Shall we start the countdown?

[NBASTATMAN]

Great watching Kobe play over the last 20 years.. Top 3 one on one skills ever IMO..

[Purch]

Gonna be a sad day. His career spans longer than my nba fandom.

[Boogey]

kobe going down as second best to jordan in 10 years.