Kobe’s tendon injury likely ends his season
LOS ANGELES – Kobe Bryant took to Facebook in the wee hours of Saturday morning to vent about the Achilles tendon injury that likely ended his season, writing the “frustration is unbearable” but the setback will not end his career.
The Lakers’ star felt a pop as he pushed off his left foot making a move during Los Angeles’ victory against Golden State on Friday night. The team, in a final push to make the playoffs, is all but certain Bryant tore his Achilles. He is scheduled for an MRI.
The 34-year-old Bryant posted about his “rage” on his Facebook a few hours after being hurt: “Why the hell did this happen ?!? Makes no damn sense. Now I’m supposed to come back from this and be the same player Or better at 35?!? How in the world am I supposed to do that??”
He added: “Maybe this is how my book ends. Maybe Father Time has defeated me … Then again maybe not!”
“One day, the beginning of a new career journey will commence. Today is NOT that day.”
After the game, Bryant appeared to fight back tears while he thought about the closing days of the Lakers’ tumultuous season. After a terrible start and numerous missteps along the way, Los Angeles (42-37) is one game ahead of the Utah Jazz, who hold the tiebreaker, for the final playoff spot in the West with two games to play.
Bryant, who scored 34 points despite hyperextending his left knee early in the second half, hit two free throws after apparently tearing his tendon with 3:08 to play, tying the game before hobbling to the locker room.
Bryant’s Facebook post continued: “If you see me in a fight with a bear, prey for the bear”. Ive always loved that quote. Thats “mamba mentality” we don’t quit, we don’t cower, we don’t run. We endure and conquer.”
Boston 120, Orlando 88: Courtney Lee scored 20 points and Jeff Green added 17 as the Boston Celtics cruised to a 120-88 victory over the Orlando Magic.
Charlotte 95, Milwaukee 85: Kemba Walker had 21 points, Josh McRoberts nearly had a triple-double and the Charlotte Bobcats handed the Milwaukee Bucks their ninth straight road loss 95-85.