NBA All-Star Game: Kobe's Farewell Is Dominant Theme

The West won last night's NBA All-Star Game in Toronto 196-173, but the "game itself will be a footnote" to an All-Star weekend "remembered for being the last of Kobe Bryant's storied career" (TORONTO SUN, 2/15). Bryant was the "last player introduced before the game, with a lengthy pause punctuated by chants of 'Kobe!' from the crowd." Two video tributes were shown, "one featuring career highlights and another including footage narrated by Bryant and praise from his basketball peers." There were also "brief addresses" by Bryant and Magic Johnson (L.A. TIMES, 2/15).

In a "season centered on nostalgia and reflection, Bryant added some more memories" (L.A. DAILY NEWS, 2/15). From the "very start of the events, it was clear this was Kobe's show" (N.Y. POST, 2/15). The "game designed for all stars was dedicated to just one" (ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER, 2/15). The game "probably will be remembered most for the promising state of the league that Bryant is leaving in his wake" (S.F. CHRONICLE, 2/15).