News of Kobe Bryant’s retirement sent shock waves within the NBA. Bryant is widely regarded as one of the premier players in league history. Additionally, his long-lasting career (twenty years) has put him in a position where he is now playing with and against many players who grew up watching and idolizing him. As a result, Twitter and Instagram ran rampant with NBA players reacting to Bryant’s announcement.
KB scored 56 on me in 3(!) qtrs my rookie year. Pushed me to be better more than any player I've faced. He has my ultimate hoops respect.
— Shane Battier (@ShaneBattier) November 30, 2015
@kobebryant we have know each other since our sophomore year in high school and it's been a pleasure… https://t.co/qox5zs0MEm
— Jermaine O'Neal (@jermaineoneal) November 30, 2015
The only basketball player I ever idolized, wanted to be like, & play like. Thanks for everything you… https://t.co/sfiOgeEkRY
— Will Barton (@WillTheThrillB5) November 30, 2015
Never cried 4 retirements but probably will when Kobe does. & if my tears hold value then I would drop 1 for every single thing he showed us
— Will Barton (@WillTheThrillB5) November 30, 2015
Thanks for everything to the greatest basketball player of all time Kobe Bryant. The game will never be the same!! pic.twitter.com/usVftyfIKu
— Jusuf Nurki? (@nurkic23) November 30, 2015
One of the most under appreciated players to ever play is saying goodbye to the game he gave his all!… https://t.co/BOi32TOJQS
— JR Smith (@TheRealJRSmith) November 30, 2015
We have lived incredible moments together on and off the court. Thanks for everything brother! @kobebryant #ThankYouKobe
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) November 30, 2015
