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Kobe Bryant plays last game as LA Laker in Philadelphia
Jennifer Joyce reports from South Philadelphia on Kobe Bryant's last game as LA Laker in Philadelphia against Philadelphia 76ers
PHILADELPHIA (WTXF) It was a special night not only for Kobe Bryant, but also for the people who have supported him through the years. From Lower Merion all the way to LA, they've been a part of his ups and downs.
Two days after Kobe Bryant announced his retirement, he played in Philadelphia. His head coach from Lower Merion High School and Dr. J weren't the only ones paying the all-star tributes courtside before the game. There was also this highlight reel of the local legend.
Read More: Kobe Bryant Says He Will Retire at the End of the Season
Before a packed arena Kobe performed. He kicked off the game with a series of 3-pointers igniting the crowd.
Kobe Fans arrived at the Wells Fargo center hours before the 7 p.m. game.
"When I heard he was retiring I teared up a little bit," said Jordan Martin of Harrisburg, Pa.
Jordan Martin - met fellow super fan David Kim - who brought a handmade vintage Kobe poster for his first and last time seeing his favorite player live.
Kim had a courtside closeup of Kobe.
"I'm excited I got butterflies the first time seeing him live," he explained.
Bryant's cousin Shariff Butler was also in the crowd for the bittersweet Philly send off.
"He's had a long illustrious career. Very proud of the way he's approached the game. It's really good to see someone from Philly - my family - do something well," he said.