As news of Kobe Bryant’s retirement at the end of the season washed over the league, the reactions poured in. There was respect, admiration, thanks, and a tinge of sadness that as players and others around the league talked about Kobe.
Here is just a sample of the reactions.
Paul George: “Kobe was my (Michael) Jordan. I didn’t really have any moments of watching Jordan, but Kobe was my Jordan. Watching him win championships, i remember just being at home watching the games with my mom, my grandma, my dad, just idolizing him. After the game was over, I’d go in the front yard and try to imitate everything I just saw. So he was, in my eyes — not saying he’s better than Jordan — but for me, growing up, that’s who I idolized and look up to. That was the standard. He was the best player, and it wasn’t close.”
We have lived incredible moments together on and off the court. Thanks for everything brother! @kobebryant #ThankYouKobe
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) 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
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver: “With 17 NBA All-Star selections, an NBA MVP, five NBA championships with the Lakers, two Olympic gold medals and a relentless work ethic, Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest players in the history of our game. Whether competing in the Finals or hoisting jump shots after midnight in an empty gym, Kobe has an unconditional love for the game. I join Kobe’s millions of fans around the world in congratulating him on an outstanding NBA career and thank him for so many thrilling memories.”
The game won't be the same once Kobe is gone...
— 🏁 Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) November 30, 2015
One of the most under appreciated players to ever play is saying goodbye to the game he gave his all!… https://t.co/BOi32TOJQS
— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) 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
Pacers’ coach Frank Vogel: “One of the best ever to play the game. I don’t know if there’s any one moment, just throughout the course of his career you didn’t want him to have the ball in his hands with the game on the line, period. Because you knew he was going to beat you.”
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
Nothing but tremendous respect and admiration for @kobebryant I have always been the biggest fan of his competitive drive. Thank you
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) 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