After 20 years in the NBA, Kobe Bryant will play his final game with the Los Angeles Lakers today in a matchup with the Utah Jazz at Staples Center in Los Angeles. Everyone, including Bryant’s wife Vanessa Bryant, is excited for the game:
This is it!!! Today’s the day!!!! My family and I are so excited. So happy to hear, “the 4th and FINAL period” one last time. My girls and I are so happy to have Kobe home more often. We’ve all sacrificed so much time, birthdays, holidays, family functions and special events to be there for Kobe. I really want to thank my daughters, Natalia and Gianna, for being patient and understanding how much hard work, sacrifice and dedication it takes to see their dad accomplish so many great things. Kobe has an incredible work ethic and amazing drive to be the best at whatever he sets his mind to and with that comes many sacrifices. We’re thankful for everything the Lord has blessed us with. The road hasn’t always been easy. We’ve had our ups and downs, but I’m so thankful we managed to persevere against the odds. We couldn’t have done it without our faith and God’s grace. We’re so happy to have seen the amount of joy Kobe brings to his fans and the city of Los Angeles. My daughters and I have been present at many of Kobe’s Make-a-Wish meet and greets, and words cannot explain how much joy he brings to people that are going through really difficult times in their lives. I thank all those beautiful families that have allowed us to share in those joyous moments. All of that really helped put things into perspective for me as a wife and mother. We must always remember that when life gets tough, there is always someone facing much more difficult times in their lives. And, in those hard times, we can be each other’s strength, and remember that it’s in the trials of life that God grows us even more! Thank you all for your amazing love and support for our family in all times! We will forever be grateful!! With Love, Vanessa Bryant
Bryant is set for his farewell basketball tonight on ESPN2 at 10:30 p.m. (Eastern).
Photos: @adbphotoinc
