Kobe says he's not playing in the 2016 Olympics in Rio

[JordanWearinThe45]

Kobe Bryant is passing the Olympic torch.

Bryant revealed Saturday that he is removing himself from consideration for a spot on the U.S. team that will compete at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics this summer, meaning the five-time NBA champion's retirement begins officially when his 20th and final season with the Los Angeles Lakers ends.

Bryant made the announcement in Salt Lake City before the Lakers' game against the Utah Jazz. He has informed USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo and Olympic coach Mike Krzyzewski, saying it's time for others to enjoy the Olympic journey.

"Since my retirement announcement, I'm able to watch these guys in a different light," said Bryant, a gold medalist in 2008 and 2012. "I've come to terms with the fact that they are the future of this game. These are the guys who deserve the spots in Rio. These are the guys who people need to watch and root for. These are the guys to show fans where this game is going in the future."

He tipped his hand on Thursday, when he said it's time for others to "see how many championships they can win, see how many gold medals they can win."

On Saturday, he made his intentions clear.

"I've had my moment," Bryant said in a pregame news conference.

 

[RedBull]

Now everyone can stop whining.

 

[Swagnificent]

How gracious is our gawd?

 

[lamont614]

 

[Forlife44]

 

[31Flavors]

Better for our chance of bringing home gold

 

[Tunez]

 

[CantStop]

Better for our chance of bringing home gold

Riiiiiiight....


Kobe is undefeated in international play and single handedly won gold for them in 2008 against Spain but he's a negative.


Like the US wasn't a laughing stock before Kobe decided to

Neg rep

 

[-DMP-]

take me in stead lord.

 

[FaTaL]

spinner earl

• FaTaL
• Dec 18, 2015

 

[31Flavors]

Riiiiiiight....


Kobe is undefeated in international play and single handedly won gold for them in 2008 against Spain but he's a negative.


Like the US wasn't a laughing stock before Kobe decided to

Neg rep

You're trying to compare to Bean in his prime?

He's a liability at this point and the least efficient player in the show

Give that roster spot to a young guy.

 

[Trojan 24]

Silver coming up

 

[Codeine Bryant]

Damn, he must reaaaaally be dying out there to pass up on a free Gold Medal and amazing olympic experience.

 

[FS4LFE]

Good nobody wanna hear or see that retirement tour bullshyt during the Olympics.

 

[Big Boss]

We got chef curry