Kobe Bryant was arguably one of the greatest players to play the game of basketball. His extraordinary scoring abilities combined with his killer mentality, continue to be an inspiration for players across the league. Kobe entered the NBA in 1996 and was acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers from Charlotte Hornets, where he spent his entire career.
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During his 20-year tenure, Bryant won five NBA championships, and one regular season MVP. The Lakers franchise has a rich history and boasts of some of the greatest players to play the game. However, one could argue that Kobe Bryant is the greatest to don the purple and gold colors.
The Buss family, majority owners of the franchise, have always had a special place for Kobe and have proved it with their actions over the years. They did everything to retain him when he requested a trade in 2007. Despite the fallout with Shaquille O’Neal, they continued to place their trust in him. In his time with them, there have been many more instances.
Jeanie Buss’ retirement gift to Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bryant’s illustrious career came to an end on April 13th, 2016, when he played his final game against the Utah Jazz in the Staples Center. Before the game, Jeanie Buss visited the Lakers superstar in the locker room to present him with a jaw-dropping gift. She handed him a black box and said the following:
“This is from my family. To thank for all that you have meant for this franchise.”
Inside the box was a diamond-crusted ring that contained five large diamonds representing his championships and twenty small diamonds for the years he played.
Kobe Bryant graciously accepted the game and expressed his thanks to Jeanie. He would go on to score 60 points in his final game, including a game-winning shot to secure the victory for his team.
Kobe Bryant’s career with the Los Angeles Lakers
Kobe Bryant won his first championship in 2000 and went on to three-peat the following years. Teaming up with Shaq, the duo pairing was considered the most dominant in the league. He went on to win two more in 2009 and 2010 when he teamed up with Pau Gasol and was judged the Finals MVP on both occasions.
In his career, Bryant averaged 25 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 4.7 APG while shooting 44.7 % from the field. He has eighteen All-Star appearances, four All-Star game MVPs, fifteen All-NBA selections, twelve All-Defensive team selections, and two scoring titles. With such an impressive resume, it’s no surprise the owners made him feel special at his retirement.
