Kobe Bryant’s Old Emotional Tribute To Pau Gasol Will Make You Cry

The Los Angeles Lakers’ historic duo, Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol, is one of the most talked-about duos in NBA history. The big news is out, Gasol is announcing his retirement from professional basketball today. It is a day to reminisce and look back at his contribution to the Lakers’ legacy.

Gasol won his two NBA championships in 2009 and 2010 while he played for the Lakers. Their presiding superstar Bryant found a friend and understanding teammate in Gasol through those years in the league.

Kobe Bryant hoped that Pau Gasol’s jersey gets retired next to his

The 6-time All-star, Pau, played for the Lakers for six seasons. Well, now that he’s saying goodbye to the sport, Kobe Bryant‘s words weigh heavier now. He said – “I don’t win those championships without Pau. When he retires, he will have his number in the rafters next to mine.”

Kobe’s No. 8 and No. 24 jerseys have been retired in the STAPLES Center rafter. And now Pau’s shirt must be on the way next to his former teammate if the Lakers decide to retire his No. 16 jersey.

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Pau’s illustrious NBA career comes to an end

Pau made it to four All-NBA Teams in his NBA career. He got selected by the Atlanta Hawks as the third overall pick in the 2001 NBA draft. But, his rights eventually got traded to Memphis Grizzlies. Followed by earning the NBA Rookie of the Year and playing for the Grizzlies, Gasol contributed to the Lakers, Bulls, Spurs, and Bucks.

The key highlight of Pau’s career was his time with the Lakers alongside Kobe Bryant. He averaged 17.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.4 blocks while shooting 52.2 percent from the field.

Will Lakers fans see Gasol’s jersey with Bryant’s in the rafters? Let us know in the comments.

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