It doesn’t matter to Kobe Bryant whether the Lakers retire No. 8 or No. 24
In the wake of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant announcing that he plans to retire at the end of the 2015-16 season, there have been many discussions that have ensued. Where does Kobe rank in the pantheon of all-time greats? What does this mean for the Lakers season? Wait, how much are tickets to the Lakers game?
One of the more lasting questions and debates, though, has been about what number the Lakers will retire once that time comes for Kobe. As everyone is aware, he started his career wearing No. 8, but changed to No. 24 as he entered a different phase of his life and career.
After the Lakers’ loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night, Bryant was asked about which number he would like to see raised into the rafters at STAPLES Center. Though it was a very politician-like answer, Kobe said that it really doesn’t matter to him which one the organization chooses to retire:
Does Kobe want No. 8 or No. 24 retired?
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 5, 2015
"Honestly flip a coin. Fact that either one of them are up there w/ the NBA greats means everything”
That’s a fair response for Bryant to have to the whole debate; he’s always been acutely aware of the history of the NBA and of the Lakers and, in actuality, probably does see his number being retired at all being an honor. It’s only politician-like in that he comes across quite humble about the possibility when he undoubtedly expects his jersey to be in the rafters someday.
In terms of which number should be in the rafters, though, probably the best solution would be to put the No. 24 jersey up there, but never let another Laker wear No. 8 again either. That way, you honor the number that he wore when he retired from the game, but also honor his work before the change.
Next: Where Does Kobe Rank All-Time?
Which number do you think that the Lakers should hang in the rafters of STAPLES? Let us know in the comments.