Majority of National Basketball Association (NBA) fans, and even league commissioner Adam Silver, believe Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant should be a 2016 All-Star, but for him it is okay not to be included.
Bryant already announced that following the 2015–16 season, he is ready to leave the sport after 20 years.
Now that he is retiring from basketball, many are calling for him to be part of the Western Conference All-Star team and compete in 2016, with Silver saying he deserves to be there.
But for Bryant, it would be okay if he will not be included in the 2016 All-Star Game and still pledged support.
"I mean it would be great to play in it. If I'm not in it, I'm not going to beat myself up over that either," Bryant said following Wednesday's practice, according to ESPN.
"I'll support the game no matter what. Support the players no matter what," the 37-year-old franchise star added.
In 23 games played this season, Bryant is averaging 16.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and one steal in 30.8 minutes of action per contest.
Along with the dip in his production, Bryant is also having one of the worst shooting he had in his career and it is an issue for him and the Lakers this season.
Despite not having All-Star level numbers and struggles with his offense, Bryant can still make it to his 18th All-Star Game if the fans vote for him.
Bryant is a 17-time All-Star and was awarded the All-Star Game Most Valuable Player (MVP) four times, in 2002, 2007, 2009, and 2011.
The five time NBA champion also said it would be great to again be an All-Star, but it would also be nice for the younger guys to step up and have the opportunity.
Bryant added, "I've played in quite a few. If I'm fortunate to be there, I'll be extremely grateful for that. If I'm not, at the same token, I'll be extremely grateful for the opportunities I've had."
