professional basketball player (1978-2020)
These young guys are playing checkers. I'm out there playing chess.
KOBE BRYANT
Los Angeles Times, February 2007
I can't believe how fast 20 years went by. I mean, this is crazy ... To be standing here, standing on the court with my teammates behind me, and appreciate this journey that we've been along... I grew up a die-hard--I mean it--a die-hard Laker fan. Die-hard. I mean, I knew everything about every player that had played here. So, to be drafted, and then traded to this organization, and to spend 20 years here, I mean, you can't write something better than this.
KOBE BRYANT
speech after his last game, 13 April 2016