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All eyes are on the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors Monday night, and it’s not because there’s a game of basketball being played. Kobe Bryant is set to have both of his jerseys retired by the Lakers, an honor no other player in NBA history has achieved.
Two eras of dominance will be honored as the basketball world collectively celebrates Kobe. The Lakers are staging “KobeLand” outside of STAPLES Center to set the tone early in what should be a night to remember for fans around the world.
The festivities have already begun, though, with stories and columns pouring out as attention shifts back to Kobe and the Lakers. Five NBA titles, a purple and gold standard, moments that created generations of fans, and a career inspiring generations of athletes.
It’s been a while since we’ve seen Kobe in the LA spotlight, last hanging around when the Lakers unveiled Shaquille O’Neal’s rim-rattling statue last season. This will be the first Kobe-specific celebration in Los Angeles since his final game, so expect an atmosphere that hasn’t been felt in STAPLES Center in a long time.
There will be a game of basketball being played, but ultimately Monday night in Los Angeles is about one man: Kobe Bryant. Enjoy the game, and the celebration at halftime.
Celebrating Kobe Bryant's Lakers jersey retirementKobe Bryant is joining Los Angeles Lakers royalty tonight when both of his numbers hang high in the rafters! Can't wait!
Posted by Silver Screen and Roll on Monday, December 18, 2017
Time: 7:30 p.m
TV: Spectrum SportsNet, NBA TV