Kobe Bryant says he will retire at end of season

Kobe Bryant waits for play to resume. The Portland Trailblazers played the Los Angeles Lakers at the Moda Center on Nov 28, 2015. [Photo/IC]

Neither has happened, and the ever-impatient Bryant didn't wait any longer to decide his future.

"Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest players in the history of our game," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. "Whether competing in the Finals or hoisting jump shots after midnight in an empty gym, Kobe has an unconditional love for the game. I join Kobe's millions of fans around the world in congratulating him on an outstanding NBA career and thank him for so many thrilling memories."

Even during his late-career struggles, Bryant's fans have remained devoted to the 6-foot-6 star who won titles alongside Shaquille O'Neal in 2000, 2001 and 2002 before teaming with Pau Gasol for two more in 2009 and 2010. Only 13 players in league history played on more championship teams than Bryant.

The Lakers (2-13) hosted the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night, and coach Byron Scott said Bryant intended to play, even after playing 34 minutes at Portland on Saturday night.

"I know his purpose is to finish out this season and play," said Scott, Bryant's teammate during the 1996-97 season. "It's always sad when greatness decides to hang it up. ... I thought he had at least another year in him."

Bryant is the NBA's highest-paid player this season with a $25 million salary bestowed on him by grateful Lakers owner Jim Buss despite his recent injury problems. Bryant has been tirelessly devoted to the franchise, repeatedly declaring he would never play for another NBA team despite the Lakers' wholesale rebuilding process following the disastrous 2012-13 season with Dwight Howard and Steve Nash.