Enigma From LA

In 1996, Kobe Bryant smiled with sunglasses atop his head. From 2000-2002, Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and Phil Jackson accrued three championships. Bryant’s talent was unquestioned. His character was flawless. Unfortunately, squabbling and Colorado occurred. The Los Angeles Lakers endured two non-title seasons. Bryant was charged with rape. O’Neal and Jackson departed. A dynasty was dismantled. Subsequently, Bryant continued scoring. However, his era had ended.

On Wednesday, Bryant demanded a trade. Hours subsequent, he rescinded said demand. Allegedly, conflict and Lakers’ non-improvement angered Bryant. Owner Jerry Buss says Bryant is merely frustrated. “I talked with Kobe this morning and assured him that I share his frustration and, more importantly, I assured him that we will continue to pursue every avenue possible to improve our team with him as the cornerstone,” Buss said. “I told him that we will keep him apprised of our progress and we agreed that we will talk again in the very near future.”

During his career, Bryant has registered 24.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per contest. He has tallied three thirty-plus point seasons. He has also logged consecutive scoring titles. Bryant has been All-NBA on nine occasions and All-Defensive squad on seven.

As previously stated, Bryant’s tenure has been tumultuous. Amidst Lakers’ dominance, he and O’Neal publicly feuded. Bryant’s legal ordeal was also turbulent. His reputation was marred. His marriage was mocked. Bryant was permanently sullied. During the subsequent three seasons, Bryant has labored. He has been a star amongst stooges.

Bryant has aged. Unfortunately, growth is not universal. Character, stature, and admiration diverge. Once, Bryant was unique. He was a beloved idol. He was an example for generations. Today, he is a squandered lesson. A millionaire, an enigma, and a hoodlum…akin to his colleagues.