Lakers News: Kobe Bryant No Longer Interested In Playing In 2016 Olympics

Corey Hansford
2 Min Read

This season will undoubtedly be Kobe Bryant’s final one in the NBA, but his basketball career could potentially continue beyond his last game with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Kobe had previously expressed interest in participating in the 2016 Olympic Games for Team USA, but that no longer seems to be the case.

Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters reports that Kobe is no longer interested in playing, saying that it’s the young guys’ turn to play:

Kobe also added that he would prefer his final basketball game to be with the Lakers, not Team USA according to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell:

This is a definite change of heart for Kobe, but it does go to show how much he values the Lakers organization. Kobe’s first and last game will be in purple and gold and that is something that he values.

Kobe already has accomplished plenty internationally, winning two Olympic gold medals. His performance against Spain in the 2008 Gold Medal game has always been one that stands out as Kobe took over the game down the stretch, ensuring a victory for Team USA.

With this announcement, Kobe has now ruled out playing overseas as well as in the Olympics, so there is no doubt that when Kobe hangs it up for the Lakers, he truly is done playing basketball for good.

Corey Hansford is the Senior Editor for Lakers Nation, as well as a contributor for Dodger Blue, Rams News Wire, and Raiders News Wire. He is a passionate follower of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chelsea FC, and the UFC. He can usually be seen arguing the merits of Kobe Bryant or cursing the decisions of Jerry Jones. He is also a former producer and associate producer for Sirius XM Sports Radio on both the Fantasy Sports Channel and College Sports Nation. Proud graduate of Long Beach Poly High School and The Real HU, Howard University, with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Follow him on all social media outlets at @TheeCoreyH.