Kobe Bryant News: Scottie Pippen Defines Bryant's Legacy; 'The Black Mamba' Breaks Shooting Record in NBA Game
Wednesday night was a monumental night for basketball, with the Golden State Warriors setting a new record, and a legend of the sport getting his proper send off.
Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant played his last game in the NBA, as his team hosted the Utah Jazz. The Purple and Gold team were able to come out victorious, ending the game with a final score of 101-96.
As expected, the 37-year old "The Black Mamba" was the star of the night, as he ended his 20-year career, scoring 60 points, along with four rebounds and four assists, shot 22 out of 50 from the field, through 42 minutes of playing time.
In a report by NPR, Bryant's performance logged in the "most number of shots taken by anyone in an NBA game", spanning through the last 30 seasons.
After the game, Bryant took time to say a few words and thank all of his supporters who have been there with him since he was drafted in 1996.
"All I can do here is thank you guys," Bryant said before the crowd in attendance. Thank you guys for all the years of support. Thank you guys for all the motivation. Thank you for all the inspiration." "What can I say? Mamba out," Bryant said, to end his speech.
Many of the sport's personalities took their time to send their well-wishes for Bryant. In a series of tweets, former Chicago Bulls star and six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen spoke about Bryant's legacy.
"His legacy? A champion whose contributions to the game won't ever be forgotten. Best of luck with what's next, @kobebryant. #MambaDay," one of Pippen's tweets read.
Pippen also went on to describe Bryant as "one of the greatest Lakers ever", next to another legend, Earvin "Magic" Johnson. As for the constant comparison with another legend Michael Jordan, here is what Pippen had to say.
"As for comparing Kobe to MJ, a lot of that has to do with the way they led. Both were the backbones of their teams and they went all out."