Report: Kobe Bryant may still play with Team USA in 2016 Olympics

Kobe Bryant is reportedly still “in contention” to play for Team USA in the 2016 Olympics.

Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant has announced that he will retire after this season, but there is still a possibility that he could play in the 2016 Olympics, reports ESPN’s Marc Stein.

USA basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo said that Bryant “remains in contention” for a Team USA spot for the Olympic Games.

Bryant has previously expressed his desire to play in the 2016 Olympics, saying it would “mean the world” to him to compete alongside the Team USA players.

Although Bryant has not participated in any of Team USA’s mandatory minicamps this year, Colangelo said Bryant is “entitled to an opportunity” to play with the team.

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Bryant has been struggling his season, averaging 15.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. The Lakers currently sit in last place in the Western Conference with a record of 2–14.

If Bryant earns one of the 12 spots on Team USA, he would be among NBA stars such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony.

Following the Lakers’ 107–103 loss to the Pacers on Sunday, Bryant said he would be honored to play with such a great group, but that the opportunity isn’t something he’s “obsessing over.”

- Xandria James