Lakers retiring both of Kobe Bryant’s jersey numbers, according to report

The Los Angeles Lakers are planning on retiring both of the numbers Kobe Bryant wore during his 20 year career with the franchise, reports Ramona Shelburne of ESPN. Both No. 8 and 24 will be hanging in the rafters, as they should be.

What will surely be a can’t miss event is slated for Dec. 18 when the Golden State Warriors visit STAPLES Center. Tickets for the event are already spiking up to astronomical prices, but a once-in-a-lifetime event to honor one of the greatest ever may be worth the cost of admission.

It’s a great gesture from the franchise, and one that was clearly earned by Bryant. His career will go down with the likes of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and legendary athletes in any sport. His time as No. 8, rising to the top of the NBA while bringing home a three-peat alongside Shaquille O’Neal.

Then, a run of three-straight NBA Finals and two championships as No. 24, with the twin towers of Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol, unstoppable sixth man Lamar Odom and a host of unforgettable role players between the two title teams could earn a nod on its own merits.

Good call, Lakers. Good call.