After entering the NBA directly from high school, Bryant went on to become one of the league’s premier players, winning five championships, being an 18-time All-Star and ranking third for all-time scoring leader.

Bryant announced his retirement plans in November 2015 via a poem entitled, "Dear Basketball."

The accolades are already pouring in from fellow athletes and celebrities on social media.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson had a triple-double by the end of the first half, but it wasn't enough as the Hawks couldn't hang on to a 9-point fourth-quarter lead against the Denver Nuggets. (Erik Rank/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

Ja’Quon Stembridge, shown here in July at the Henry County Republican Party monthly meeting, recently stepped from his position with the Georgia GOP. (Jenni Girtman for the AJC)

Credit: Jenni Girtman