Today marks a day where Kobe Bryant deserves the right not to think about basketball or worry about the rehab surrounding his left torn Achilles tendon.
But considering his insatiable competitiveness, it shouldn’t be surprising if Bryant’s sticking to his usual routine on Friday in what marks his 35th birthday. After all, that unyielding competitiveness marks one of the many traits that led a certain teammate to make this evaluation on Twitter.
Today is the birthday of one of the greatest ever, my friend & teammate @kobebryant ! Happy birthday brother! #vino pic.twitter.com/JdOw3VT3b5
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) August 23, 2013
Bryant’s body of work speaks for itself, what with the five NBA championships, two Finals MVPs, one regular-season MVP, four All-Star game MVPs and a fourthh-place spot on the league’s all-time scoring list. But he hardly considers himself done. Bryant seems determined not only to overcome his torn left Achilles tendon and return to the court. He appears motivated in using that obstacle both to shatter his already impressive play and possibly play past his expiring $30.5 million contract following this season.
Hence, don’t be surprised if Bryant refuses to eat birthday cake or party on his special day. It’s very likely he’ll spend his time ensuring that he remains a special player.
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Follow L.A. Daily News Lakers beat writer Mark Medina on Twitter. E-mail him at mark.medina@dailynews.com