Photo Credit: Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images
Kobe Bryant’s last career game was a historic event in the world of basketball. Seven years ago today, on April 13, 2016, Kobe played his final NBA game against the Utah Jazz at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. It was an emotional night for both Kobe and his fans, as the legendary player had announced his retirement earlier that season.
Leading up to the game, there was a sense of anticipation and excitement in the air. Fans knew that they were witnessing the end of an era, and they wanted to be a part of it. Tickets for the game sold out immediately for insane prices, and fans from all over the world came to see Kobe play one last time.
When the game started, it was clear that Kobe was not going to go quietly into retirement. He started off the game hot, scoring 15 points in the first quarter alone. He continued to pour in points throughout the game, showing flashes of his former self and reminding fans why he was considered one of the greatest players of all time.
As the game went on, it became clear that Kobe was on a mission. He was determined to go out on top, and he was playing with a level of intensity and focus that we hadn’t seen from him in years. He was hitting shots from all over the court, driving to the basket with reckless abandon, and playing with a level of energy that belied his age.
The crowd at the Staples Center was electric throughout the game, cheering every time Kobe touched the ball and erupting in applause every time he scored. It was clear that they were savoring every moment, knowing that they were witnessing something special.
In the fourth quarter, with the game tied at 96, Kobe hit a clutch three-pointer to give the Lakers the lead. He followed that up with another basket to extend the lead to three. The crowd was on its feet, roaring with excitement.
With just seconds left in the game, Kobe was fouled and sent to the free-throw line. He calmly sank both free throws, giving the Lakers a 101-96 lead. The crowd erupted, knowing that they were witnessing history.
The final buzzer sounded, and Kobe’s last career game was over. He finished with an astonishing 60 points, the most points scored by a player in their final game. He had led the Lakers to a come-from-behind victory, capping off an incredible 20-year career in the NBA.
As Kobe walked off the court for the last time, the crowd gave him a standing ovation. They knew that they had just witnessed one of the greatest players in the history of basketball play his last game. It was a bittersweet moment, as they knew that they would never see Kobe play again, but they were grateful for the memories that he had given them over the years. Mamba out…
