Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant set a record in his team's season opener Wednesday as he became the first player in the National Basketball Association (NBA) to play 20 seasons for one team.
"That's probably the most special one to me. I've always dreamed about being with one organization and being with this organization as a kid. I've been in this jersey for more than half my life. That's crazy," Bryant said according to ESPN.
Bryant was orginally drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 1996 but he was traded to the Lakers and the rest was history.
Now the 37-year-old joins an elite group of men who have played 20 seasons in the NBA which include Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,Kevin Garnett, Robert Parish and Kevin Willis.
Bryant said he is very blessed to spend 20 seasons with a team like the Lakers which he helped to five championships.
Unfortunately, Bryant and the Lakers did not have much success in the game that celebrated his 20th season in the league and with the team.
Los Angeles hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves last Wednesday and had the advantage until a late game collapse which led to a 112-111 defeat.
Bryant did not play lackluster though as he led the purple and gold with 24 points, four rebounds, one assist, and two steals.
Helping him offensively was reigning Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams who had 21 points, three rebounds, one assist, and one block.
Despite the effort from Bryant and the Lakers, the Timberwolves kept their composure and played inspired basketball to seal the win.
Days before Minnesota opened its season, the team's head coach Flip Saunders passed away at the age of 60 years old due to cancer.
The Lakers will continue their season with another Western Conference matchup as they head to the Sleep Train Arena to take on the Sacramento Kings this Friday.
