"Kobe, are you really not going to reconsider?"
The moment the Los Angeles Lakers were brutally eliminated in a hard-fought game, the entire online world seemed to erupt into a stormy uproar.
Almost at the same time, a striking poll quickly appeared across major social media platforms and sports forums.
The poll was simple, yet it struck straight at the heart—did you support Kobe Bryant's retirement?
There were only two options: support it, or don't support it.
Surprisingly, as many as 95% of fans chose not to support it without hesitation.
They were filled with reluctance and attachment toward Kobe, unable to accept that this basketball legend would simply bid farewell to the court.
For Los Angeles Lakers owner Jim Buss, whether Kobe stayed or left was even tied to the team's financial lifeline.
Just the ticket revenue from that crucial game alone had brought the team an astonishing 45 million! Once merchandise sales, advertising sponsorships, television rights, and other sources of revenue were added in, the figure became even more staggering.
It could be said that, thanks to Kobe's immense influence, the Los Angeles Lakers had made a fortune this season.
Naturally, Jim Buss did not want to see Kobe retire.
What was more, he simply could not find anyone suitable to replace Kobe.
This was not only related to the team's record, but also closely tied to the interests of the Buss Family.
After all, the Buss Family had always relied on the Los Angeles Lakers as a cash cow to earn enormous profits.
If they could keep Kobe on the team making money while still retaining the strength to contend for a championship, that would be the best of both worlds.
So, as soon as the game ended, Jim Buss acted decisively.
He personally presented Kobe with