During a jersey retirement ceremony, Kobe Bryant was praised as the “greatest” Laker of all time by Magic Johnson, another iconic Los Angeles Laker. The memorial service was held at the Staples Center during halftime of the Lakers’ game versus the Golden State Warriors. Bryant’s 8 and 24 jersey numbers were retired, along with other legendary Lakers jerseys from the team’s past.

Johnson, who is currently the president of basketball operations for the Lakers, expressed gratitude for Bryant’s exceptional abilities and contribution to the organization. “We’re here to celebrate the greatest person to ever wear purple and gold,” he said. We rubbed our eyes, wondering what we had just witnessed. Never, ever will another Kobe Bryant exist.”

Bryant spent ten seasons playing for each of his retired numbers. He won two titles while wearing number 24 and three championships while wearing number 8. A heartfelt Bryant thanked the audience throughout the ceremony, praising their support as well as the history of former Lakers players. “Thank you so much for tonight,” he said. My jerseys hаnging there are not the reason for this. It has to do with the jerseys that were formerly hung there.”

Several Lakers icons were present to greet Bryant, who announced his retirement following the 2015–16 season. Bryant has an amazing resume that includes 18 All-Star selections, two scoring titles, two Olympic gold medals, two NBA Finals MVP trophies, and a 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player award. Bryant thanked the fans who encouraged him over his two-decade tenure with the Lakers and underlined that the journey was more important than the final goal.

The event honored important turning points in Bryant’s career, including his final game in which he scored 60 points, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to accomplish such a feat, and his career-high 81-point performance in 2006. Owner of the Lakers Jeanie Buss, who has been instrumental in maintaining the team’s legacy, gave a moving tribute to Bryant, acknowledging his influence on the organization. “What we’re celebrating is the journey you took us on for those twenty years,” the woman said. You have left an enduring impression on this franchise.”

The event, which honored Kobe Bryant’s remarkable career and his enduring legacy with the Los Angeles Lakers, was poignant and unforgettable.