After 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant retired following a 60-point performance against the Utah Jazz. Just 20 months later, Bryant's two jersey numbers were retired against the Golden State Warriors.
While there will continue to be debates about 8 vs. 24, the five-time champion finally revealed which number he would have chosen if he had to according to House of Highlights:
Kobe finally picks between No. 8 and No. 24. 👀 (via @nbatv)
A post shared by House of Highlights (@houseofhighlights) on
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After playing in each number for 10 seasons, it is not surprising Bryant went with 24. While he won three championships with Shaquille O'Neal, he proved his doubters wrong with his fourth and fifth championships.
For Bryant, the next steps will be the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and statue outside of Staples Center. While the Lakers retired both numbers, it will be interesting to see what they ultimately do with his statue.
For the Lakers, there is great optimism with a young core established. With Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball leading the way, President of Basketball Operations Magic Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka are looking to make a major splash in 2018 free agency with ample cap space.