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Atlanta Hawks

Kobe to play final game in Atlanta Friday

Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant (24) gives instructions to his teammates during the Atlanta Hawks vs the L.A. Lakers basketball game in Philips arena on Monday, December 16, 2013. The Atlanta Hawks won the game 114 to 100. JOHNNY CRAWFORD / JCRAWFORD@AJC.COM
Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant (24) gives instructions to his teammates during the Atlanta Hawks vs the L.A. Lakers basketball game in Philips arena on Monday, December 16, 2013. The Atlanta Hawks won the game 114 to 100. JOHNNY CRAWFORD / JCRAWFORD@AJC.COM
By Chris Vivlamore
Nov 30, 2015

Kobe Bryant will play his last game in Atlanta on Friday.

The Lakers star officially announced that he is playing his final season in an article in the Players Tribune Sunday night. The Lakers make their only appearance here this week.

In an article that began “Dear Basketball” Bryant wrote: “My heart can take the pounding, my mind can handle the grind, but my body knows it’s time to say goodbye.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Siliver issued a statement regarding Bryant:

“With 17 NBA All-Star selections, an NBA MVP, five NBA championships with the Lakers, two Olympic gold medals and a relentless work ethic, Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest players in the history of our game. Whether competing in the Finals or hoisting jump shots after midnight in an empty gym, Kobe has an unconditional love for the game.

“I join Kobe’s millions of fans around the world in congratulating him on an outstanding NBA career and thank him for so many thrilling memories.”

About the Author

Chris Vivlamore is the sports editor at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He has served as reporter and editor at the AJC since 2003.

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