Kobe Bryant Retiring!

Kobe Bryant retiring after the 2015-16 season.

Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant announced he's packing it up after this season ends with the NBA. He is 37 years old and has been battling injuries since the last season.

"I'm ready to let you go," Bryant said in a poem, titled "Dear Basketball," published on the Players' Tribute website.

There has been whispers about the legendary baller's retirement since the 2014-15 season. But now we can finally confirm that Kobe's time is up. He's going to retire a legend.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called Bryant "one of the greatest players in the history of our game" in a statement given to the junk food media.

"With 17 NBA All-Star selections, an NBA MVP, five NBA championships with the Lakers, two Olympic gold medals and a relentless work ethic, Kobe Byrant is one of the greatest players in the history our game. Whether competing in the Finals or hoisting jump shots after midnight in an empty gym, Kobe has an unconditional love for the game".

Silver added, "I  join Kobe's millions of fans around the world in congratulating him on an outstanding NBA career and thank him for so many thrilling memories".

Kobe is a 20 year NBA veteran in the game. He is currently third in all-time scoring points. He comes behind the legendary Karl Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in scoring.

Kobe is married to Vanessa Bryant (nee Laine) and has two children.

He has appeared in movies, video games, and has endorsement deals from major companies.

Kobe beaten a rape charge in 2003 when he was accused by a Colorado hotel staffer. He appeared with Vanessa by his side to tell the junk food media that he had numerous affairs on his wife. He admits that the he had consensual sex with the accuser. The accuser refused to push the charges further.

Did you know that Kobe had a feud with former teammate Shaqueille O'Neal?

Did you know that Kobe is 6'6"?

Kobe grew up in Philadelphia, and attended Lower Merion High School located in Ardmore, in the Philadelphia suburb of Lower Merion. He was one of the first NBA players to leave straight out of high school to join the league.