LA Lakers Rumors: Players and Fans React To Kobe Bryant's Final Epic Game Before Retirement
Kobe Bryant was undoubtedly a force of nature who belonged to a rare class of prolific hardcourt scorers in NBA endowed with once-in-a-generation talent. At the end of his 20-year illustrious career with LA Lakers, number 24 officially bade farewell in the most Kobe-ish fashion when he faced Utah Jazz in Wednesday night finale.
Although the Los Angeles Lakers was inevitably dusted off from the playoffs, Black Mamba proved once more that his last game won't be the last thing everyone would remember. What he did was beyond expectations as he pummeled down the Jazz with his signature performance leading to an exhilarating and historic 101-96 win over Utah according to Bleacher Report.
It was something worth watching for despite Lakers' mediocre performance throughout the season compounded by recent infighting, locker room tension, and failed rebuilding efforts under the stewardship of Bryan Scott.
The retiring legend raked 60 points after taking 50 shots from start to end- an NBA record for a player in his last game including a breathtaking 17 straight scores in the last quarter to give the Lakers more than enough reason to celebrate as reported by ESPN.
So, what did other NBA players and fans say about Kobe's epic finale?
For one thing, most, if not all, players would forgive Bryant's numerous flaws including his notorious self-centeredness on the hardcourt as he delivered another of his best performances in his retirement game. One thing's for sure though, nobody doubted his talents. Twitter statements from other NBA greats paid homage to his athletic prowess. "UNBELIEVABLE", tweeted LeBron James (perhaps the greatest player in the current crop of NBA athletes).
Fans and haters were equally drawn to seemingly endless comments after watching the game. Below are some of the fans' and haters' reactions as quoted from CBS Sports news piece in the comments section.
"What a great player and what a great career and ending it like this was a great ride. A true champion who will go down as one of the greatest to ever set foot on the court. Thanks for all the memories and championships Kobe, you're a true legend,"- TheLakeShow
"What a Kobe way to end it... 50 f'ing shots? Way to lead the kids Kobe, and you wonder why the Lakers are such a mess. Good riddance to the most selfish player in NBA history. He might be a top 25 player of all-time, but he is easily one of the worst, if not the worst teammate of all-time,"- richyriches
"Oh the haters are so salty right now. I love it! Nobody will be able to replicate carrying his team to a win and scoring 60 freaking points at the age of 37 years old. Even his strongest critique has to appreciate what they just witnessed!"- AZRaider32
