As I sit here watching Kobe Bryant's final game for the Los Angeles Lakers, only happy thoughts cross my mind. The legend who has given more than half of his life to the NBA is retiring after his 20th season. With five championship rings, two championship MVP awards, a four-time NBA All-Star MVP, the third all-time scorer, and 81 points in one single game, this legend will leave the game as one of the greatest players of all time.

I grew up watching Kobe play. My parents were Laker fanatics; they had handshakes for when a player did something spectacular and they have been going to games since the Lakers played at the Forum. I have many memories of them screaming and cheering at the television screen as I laughed and sat next to them embarrassed.

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Kobe has influenced my life like no other athlete has. He is the Michael Jordan of our generation. Some may say he is better than MJ. His dedication, drive, and love for the sport of basketball sets him apart from all the other players. I grew up listening to announcers talk about how he was at the practice before everyone else and was the last to leave as well. No one compares to Kobe. He works harder than any other athlete. His success, attitude, work ethic, and passion were things that most athletes only dream of.

Everyone has respect for Kobe. Even the non-Laker fans respect him as they hate him. Some people became Laker fans because of Kobe. Heat fans, Spurs fans, Cavalier fans, and even Celtic fans will miss seeing him play. They will miss the competition he brought to every game and the amazing shots he had at the buzzer that kept the other teams on their toes.

Not seeing Kobe play anymore will be very strange for me and all other Laker fans. He is a legend and will always be one. A statue will be built outside of the Staples Center and his jersey will be hung inside along the other greats of the Laker organization.

As his final game comes to an end, I value the final minutes I have watching his drives to the basket, the fade away shots, the three-pointers, and the dedication I can still see in his eyes. The Lakers surprisingly close out Kobe's career with a win. With 60 points in his final 48 minutes, Kobe leaves the sport as a legend. Even on his way out he ends his career with the record of most baskets in a farewell game.

Kobe Bryant, you are the greatest athlete of your time. No athlete can compare with your passion and dedication. As you walk off of the court for the last time, just know Laker Nation thanks you for an amazing 20 years and you will be missed dearly by all. You are forever our greatest player and MVP.