“Don’t let anybody take that away from you” – Kobe Bryant revealed what Michael Jordan told him before his retirement

Kobe had a big brother-little-brother relationship with MJ.

When Kobe Bryant announced his decision to retire in 2015, people were still surprised despite his long injury history and his years in the league. Kobe was in his 20th NBA season, and he made one last farewell tour all over the country, but it was an official end of an era for millions of Kobe fans who fell in love in the sport because of him.

Bean admitted he thought about retirement in the offseason and even consulted Michael Jordan about his plans. Kobe revealed how he spoke with MJ on the phone on the topic. It turned out that he and the NBA legend were in constant communication back then.

“We had some laughs, went back and forth about it,” Bryant said via UPI. “But the important thing for him, he said, ‘Just enjoy it. No matter what, just enjoy it. Don’t let anybody take that away from you, no matter what happens, good or bad. Enjoy it, man.'”

Kobe’s body couldn’t take it anymore

Given the toughness that Bryant had, the decision to retire was hard to digest. But considering he had missed a lot of games in the previous seasons, it was something that appeared imminent.

Due to an assortment of injuries, Kobe played just 41 games in the last two seasons. As he was preparing to play in the 2015-16 season, the 6-foot-6 guard suffered a calf injury, forcing him out of that season’s final two weeks of exhibition games.

He did manage to suit up in the season opener but failed to lift the Los Angeles Lakers. Several weeks later, the 13th overall pick of the 1996 Draft penned a poem on “The Players’ Tribune,” revealing the 2015-16 season would be his last.

“My heart can take the pounding. My mind can handle the grind. But my body knows it’s time to say goodbye,” part of Kobe’s poem read.

Bryant’s retirement decision was final

At the time of his retirement announcement, Bryant was already 37 years old. Although this was a twilight age, Kobe could have played on had he wanted to. However, Bryant admitted that his decision was final and that nothing could change his mind.

“If I had a burning desire to continue to play, I would. I wouldn’t be second-guessing; I wouldn’t be on the fence. I feel very solid in my decision,” Bryant added.

Given his NBA run, it would only be fitting for opposing teams to honor Kobe in his last season. However, the five-time NBA champion requested not to hold any on-court ceremonies on his behalf or hand him any gifts.

Kobe just wanted to play out his last season and help the Lakers as much as he could. He played a total of 66 games, averaging 17.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 28.2 minutes of action.

Comparing his numbers to his previous best years, there was no question that Kobe’s performance had dipped considerably. He was aware of it and gave a harsh assessment of his play at the time.

“I suck right now,” Bryant said. “I’m the 200th-best player in the league right now.”

Kobe finished career in style

Lackadaisical as his last season may have been, Bryant saved the best for last. Playing his last game against the Utah Jazz, the 18-time All-Star gave it his all in what be a memorable showing.

Bryant dug deep and unloaded a game-high 60 points in his final game, helping the Purple and Gold beat the Utah Jazz 101-96. 23 of those points came in the fourth quarter, an effort that outscored the Jazz output in that period.

His last game also placed Kobe in the NBA record books. Thanks to his 60-point scoring splurge, Bryant became the oldest player to score 30 or more points in a game at 37.

Although he struggled in his last seasons, Bryant tried his best and gave it his all. Although his last season was erratic, his final game was a testament to his resiliency and hard work, capping his storied career on a high note. It was the only way his legendary career could end.