The 2016 NBA season marked the end of a legacy. After playing for the Los Angeles Lakers for around two decades, NBA legend Kobe Bryant announced his retirement after the season.

After his retirement, like many other stars, Kobe shifted his focus to his business empire. Moreover, he was also involved in various other activities post-retirement, like writing books.

During one of his promotional appearances with Millionaire TV host Ellen DeGeneres in 2018, audiences around the world witnessed the Mamba play basketball again. However, it was not in a actual game. In fact, the two celebrities indulged in a fun little spinoff of the popular game ‘Connect Four’.

While Ellen converted her first attempt at the game, Bryant missed his shot by a mile. After missing the shot, he joked and said that this was the reason why he isn’t coming back from retirement. “See, this is why I’m not coming out of retirement,” as the Los Angeles Lakers legend put it.

Although Bryant did not make his comeback in the league, one of his idols certainly did. It is none other than Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan. The six-time NBA champion came back to play after retiring on two occasions. 

Kobe Bryant retired as an All-Time legend

Lakers legend Kobe Bryant officially retired on April 2016. A few months prior, the veteran announced to the world that he will retire at the end of the season.

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During his final 2015-16 season, the Lakers finished last in the Western Conference! Playing his final game, Kobe and the Lakers faced the Utah Jazz at home with Bryant taking the stage for one last time. In his signature Mamba style, the five-time NBA champion left the league with a bang.

Kobe scored 60 points in his final game to mark the end of a glorious career. 

Moreover, he has two Finals MVP awards and a regular season MVP award. Kobe retired with an average of 25.0 points, 4.7 assists, and 5.2 rebounds in 20 seasons with the Lakers.

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