Hours passed, and the frustration stemmed from a probable torn Achilles in his left foot left Kobe Bryant wondering why this would happen.
“This is such BS!” Bryant posted on Facebook. “All the training and sacrifice just flew out the window with one step that I’ve done millions of times! The frustration is unbearable. The anger is rage. 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?? I have NO CLUE. Do I have the consistent will to overcome this thing? Maybe I should break out the rocking chair and reminisce on the career that was. Maybe this is how my book ends. Maybe Father Time has defeated me…”
Bryant will have an MRI this morning, but it likely won’t take a diagnosis to confirm the obvious. Bryant’s done for the reason, and it remains to be seen how long it will take for him to return next season in what will be in the final year of his contract.
The magnitude hit Bryant hard, but not enough to believe he can’t overcome it. After all, that’s how he defined himself in his 17-year career.
“My foot feels like dead weight, my head is spinning from the pain meds and I’m wide awake,” Bryant wrote at 3:30 am. “Forgive my Venting but what’s the purpose of social media if I won’t bring it to you Real No Image?? Feels good to vent, let it out. To feel as if THIS is the WORST thing EVER! Because After ALL the venting, a real perspective sets in. There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever. One day, the beginning of a new career journey will commence. Today is NOT that day.”
Bryant then repeated something he’s often written on Twitter.
“If you see me in a fight with a bear, prey for the bear”. Ive always loved that quote,” Bryant said. “That’s “mamba mentality” we don’t quit, we don’t cower, we don’t run. We endure and conquer. I know it’s a long post but I’m Facebook Venting LOL. Maybe now I can actually get some sleep and be excited for surgery tomorrow. First step of a new challenge.
Guess I will be Coach Vino the rest of this season. I have faith in my teammates. They will come thru.
Thank you for all your prayers and support. Much Love Always. Mamba Out
Follow L.A. Daily News Lakers beat writer Mark Medina on Twitter. E-mail him at mark.medina@dailynews.com