Kobe Bryant

LeBron hails Kobe

Bryant sat courtside as his former team the Lakers beat the Hawks 122-101 at Staples Center, where James shared an embrace with the five-time NBA champion.

James, who posted 33 points and 12 rebounds on Sunday, acknowledged Bryant in the opening quarter as the past met the present before nailing a three-pointer in Los Angeles.

"He is one of the greatest players to have played this game," James told reporters post-game. "I'm just trying put on a show for him.

Bryant's film nominated for Oscar

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Tuesday that the Los Angeles Lakers legend's short film, "Dear Basketball," is one of five nominees for this year's Best Animated Short award.

The film was put together by illustrator Glen Keane as an animated version of the letter Bryant wrote to announce his retirement.

"What?? This is beyond the realm of imagination," Bryant posted on Twitter in response to the nomination.

NBA great announces retirement

Bryant, who is struggling through the worst season of his illustrious 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, said in a piece posted on the Players' Tribune website that "I'm ready to let go."

The decision was not totally unexpected as the 37-year-old Lakers guard and five time NBA champion has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons and had recently said he was considering retirement.