Kobe Bryant is an all-time legend, and he was a player that impacted many people around the world. He was known as a symbol of hard work, and there is no doubt that a lot of Lakers fans view him as somebody who was only surpassed by Michael Jordan.
Father Time catches up to everyone though, and Kobe Bryant retired at the end of the 2015-16 season. During his last game in Charlotte, Michael Jordan notably gave him a great farewell speech. It was well-known that Kobe Bryant looked up to and had a good relationship with Michael Jordan.
🗓 December 28, 2015.
Michael Jordan says farewell to Kobe at his final game in Charlotte before he’s introduced to Jay-Z’s Dynasty Intro.
Chills. 🐐
— Timeless Sports (@timelesssports_) December 28, 2021
I just want to congratulate you on an unbelievable career. When I look back, and the first time we actually played against each other, the competitive drive… it was very invigorating.
I’m very happy to leave you this message to say how much we are very proud of what you have accomplished over the years… I’ve always been like a big brother, and you like a little brother. We communicate all the time… I want to congratulate you, Vanessa, and the girls. You’ve been a big help to the game of basketball. You helped the NBA, you helped promote it, pretty sure you got a lot of fans all over the world. I’m a big fan, I still love watching you play. I’m very happy for you and what you have accomplished within the game… It’s your last year, just have fun. Take it a day at a time.
There’s no question that this was a heartfelt message from Michael Jordan and from the video, we can see that Kobe Bryant was emotional when hearing Jordan speak. The two clearly shared a deep bond.
Kobe Bryant’s dream was to be the next Michael Jordan, and most people would say that he was able to step up to the plate. He’s had a fantastic NBA career, and people still talk about him as one of the most skilled players the game has ever seen.
