Crumpled paper in hand during geometry class. Back to the recycling bin, throwing up a turnaround jumper, screaming “KOBE!” This was an everyday reality for just about every middle school student for the last 15 years, but soon that will be no more. Kobe is hanging up his signature shoes after 19 years. The journey of Michael Jordan 2.0 is coming to an end.
Kobe is more than a basketball player. Kobe is more than a future hall of famer. Kobe Bean Bryant is an icon. When this era is looked back on, there are few athletes that will be remembered and Kobe is one of them.
After announcing his retirement, there are only a few certainties. One, the game of basketball and the Los Angeles Lakers will never be the same. Two, many of the young players that grew up watching and mimicking Kobe will lose their icon. And finally, the game of basketball is entering a new era. Does that era belong to LeBron James? How about Kevin Durant? That is yet to be seen. But by this time next season someone will have to step up as the face of the league.
Kobe’s career coming to an end is a sad reminder. It reminds us that players do not last forever. All of our favorite players have an expiration date. Watching Kobe, it is clear that he does not have anything left in the tank. His body is breaking down, he lost his competitive edge and he doesn’t have the will to play any longer. This season is not for him, this season is for us. This is for the fans that stood by him, grew up idolizing him. This is for the players he inspired. This is one last ride for the black mamba. He may not necessarily be looking for a Derek Jeter-esque send off, but that is what he’s going to get.
Whether you grew up loving him, or grew up dreading when Kobe came to town. There is one thing that every sports fan must do. Take 2 hours out of your day to watch Kobe one last time. He has meant more to the game than anyone since Jordan. Give him your time for one final watch, because if you don’t you will regret it.
–Michael Hersey
