NBA stars past and present react to Kobe Bryant’s retirement

News of Kobe Bryant’s retirement reverberated throughout the league on Sunday, with past and present NBA rivals, teammates and coaches speaking out on the Black Mamba’s announcement.

We have lived incredible moments together on and off the court. Thanks for everything brother! @kobebryant #ThankYouKobe

— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) November 30, 2015

You loved the game @kobebryant and the game loved you back! Proud to know you and honored to have represented the #PurpleandGold together!

— Rick Fox (@RickFox) November 30, 2015

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

Paul George on Kobe: “He’s still my idol regardless of him aging and his game changing. …I’m going to cherish this matchup.”

— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) November 30, 2015

“Anything I do in the post,” DeMar DeRozan said, “I took from Kobe.”

— Eric Koreen (@ekoreen) November 30, 2015

Much respect to @kobebryant as he announces his retirement after the season. A fierce competitor and one of the greatest to ever do it!

— Eric Gordon (@TheofficialEG10) November 30, 2015

Scott’s reflections on Kobe: “Everything. I can go back to when he was a young guy shooting in the dark in the Forum hours before practice.”

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 30, 2015