Basketball world reacts to Kobe Bryant's retirement announcement
When a player with the legendary resume of Kobe Bryant decides to call it a career, a plethora of tributes and reflections are sure to pour in from his peers, rivals, and loved ones.
On that note, here are some of the best reactions following Bryant's announcement that he will retire at the conclusion of the 2015-16 season.
Related: Bryant pens letter for Lakers fans attending Sunday's game
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement regarding @kobebryant’s announcement today pic.twitter.com/fenWAw4qSH
— NBA (@NBA) November 30, 2015
Hear what @Lakers HC, Byron Scott had to say about Kobe Bryant. https://t.co/7Hyd2cpvyg
— NBA TV (@NBATV) 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
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
Thank you #kobe #koberetire pic.twitter.com/hu5KXVHiJt
— Hassan Whiteside (@youngwhiteside) November 30, 2015
"Anything I do in the post," DeMar DeRozan said, "I took from Kobe."
— Eric Koreen (@ekoreen) November 30, 2015
DD "They look at Kobe like he’s an asshole. He’s not. He’s just one of them guys who want every single thing out of the game of basketball.”
— Eric Koreen (@ekoreen) 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
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
😩😩😩 @georgelopez ... we knew it was coming some day. What a competitor. What a ride! 🏀 That darn father time. pic.twitter.com/Zd7McaLAWY
— Arsenio Hall (@ArsenioHall) 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
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
The game won't be the same once Kobe is gone...
— Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) November 30, 2015