Kobe Bryant has a had a remarkable career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Beginning his first season in 1996 and reaching his twentieth year in the 2015-2016 season, Bryant has achieved a list of feats and accomplishments that curbed NBA history. Included in those feats are five championships, All-Star selections, one Most Valuable Player award, and ultimately a future spot in the Hall of Fame.
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These accomplishments are easily recognizable and the Lakers organization praises their star of the purple and gold. President Jeanie Buss says this season will be a celebration of Kobe’s twentieth season and head coach Byron Scott agrees as well. According to Lakers Nation Reporter Serena Winters, Scott discussed the possibility of a farewell tour:
Byron Scott on @TheBeast980: "Kobe deserves one of these farewell tours. I don't think he wants it, but I think he deserves it."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) May 27, 2015
Bryant is reaching the last year of his two year, $48.5 million contract extension that was signed in 2013. Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak has said that Bryant has indicated to him that this is his final season before retirement but the veteran is still undecided.
As a farewell tour is not much of Bryant’s style, the Lakers franchise and fan base owe much to the shooting guard who influenced and committed to the team for over the last two decades. One of the best players in Lakers history, Bryant has earned the respect from current and former players.
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