Kobe Bryant’s Legendary NBA Career: One Team For 20 Seasons
Kobe Bryant’s incomparable 20-year-long NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers made him one of the greatest basketball players ever. Kobe will forever be remembered for his talent, drive and loyalty to the Lakers, the only team he ever played for.
Kobe Bryant’s Debut Season with the Lakers
Kobe Bryant was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets during the 1996 NBA Draft but was traded straight away to the Los Angeles Lakers. In his first season with the Lakers, he started 31 of the 82 regular season games and averaged 7.6 points, 1.9 assists and 1.3 rebounds in a little over 15 minutes of game play. He went on to help the Lakers win their first championship in 12 years and was selected to the All-Rookie Second Team.
The Reign of Kobe Bryant Continues
From the 1997-1998 season until the 2013-201 season, Kobe looked to make his mark on the Lakers and the NBA. During this time, he provided the Lakers with outstanding performances and unbelievable wins. Here are a few of his incredible achievements:
- 5 NBA Championships: Kobe led the Lakers to 3 consecutive championships from 1999-2002, as well as championships in 2009 and 2010.
- NBA MVP: In 2008, Kobe was named the NBA’s MVP.
- 17 All-Star appearances: Kobe was a part of the All-Star team for 17 consecutive years.
- 33,643 career points: At the end of his career, Kobe was the Lakers all-time leading scorer with over 33,000 points.
Kobe Bryant was an essential part of the Los Angeles Lakers and left a great legacy behind. He stayed with the Lakers through thick and thin, becoming an inspiration and a symbol of loyalty.
Kobe Bryant’s Last Game with the Lakers
Kobe showed yet another sign of his tremendous dedication to the Lakers on April 13th, 2016. He played his last game wearing purple and gold, scoring an incredible 60 points for the Lakers in a 101-96 victory over the Utah Jazz. The Staples Centre was on their feet, cheering for one of their greatest players ever.
Conclusion
Kobe Bryant had an unprecendeted 20-year-old career with the Los Angeles Lakers and left behind a legendary legacy. His commitment to the team, his loyalty and his burning desire to win make him an inspiration for generations to come. Kobe will forever be remembered by the Lakers, the NBA and its fans.
