When the final buzzer sounded he had scored 60 points. The first NBA player to ever end his career by scoring over 50.
And the compliments never stopped coming.
“He never cheated us as fans. He has played hurt, and we have five championship banners to show for it.” -Magic Johnson
“It’s been great watching you, and I hope you’ve enjoyed it half as much as me and my family have. You’ve been an inspiration to us all, and L.A. loves you.” -Jack Nicholson
“Kobe Bryant is the greatest Laker ever.” -Shaquille O’Neal
Tonight the Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter introduced Kobe Bryant in the starting lineup, noting that it was for “the final time” as deafening cheers rained down from the crowd.
[READ: Kobe Bryant and Daughter Killed in Helicopter Crash]
Kobe retiring? That doesn’t seem possible for any of us.
Turning City Hall purple and gold tonight. #ThankYouKobe #GoLakers! pic.twitter.com/BuCR8vMePk
— Mayor of Los Angeles (@MayorOfLA) April 14, 2016
Appreciation #ThankYouKobe pic.twitter.com/60q57m9Vkw
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) April 14, 2016
.@MagicJohnson introduces a fellow legend for his final game #ThankYouKobe pic.twitter.com/VCK3SERcE8
— STAPLES Center (@STAPLESCenter) April 14, 2016
2 down, 1 left. #ThankYouKobe pic.twitter.com/gEhY01hRGE
— Sports Nation Ohio (@SN_Ohio) April 14, 2016
Congrats @kobebryant on an amazing career. One of the greatest to ever play the game! #ThankYouKobe #AliTweet
— Muhammad Ali (@MuhammadAli) April 13, 2016
“I’m chasing perfection.” #MambaDay #KB20 #ThankYouKobe pic.twitter.com/Ujib1AhnlE
— J&K Present (@JandKPresent) April 13, 2016
.@kobebryant I’ve enjoyed every minute of your career. #ThankYouKobe for all of the fantastic memories! #MambaDay pic.twitter.com/W6X0S9kdOu
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) April 13, 2016
