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.

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Hawks forward Jalen Johnson and guard Dyson Daniels celebrate a comeback win against the Suns on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, in Phoenix. The Hawks have seen Daniels steadily grow into one of their top ball-handlers. (Darryl Webb/AP)

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Rose Scott signals as Closer Look goes on air in the WABE studio. An Atlanta resident left WABE a $3 million donation, a boost after WABE lost $1.9 million in annual funding from the Corporation of Public Broadcasting. (Ben Gray / AJC file)

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