On Nov. 29, Kobe Bryant announced that he will retire after this season on The Players’ Tribune website. Bryant is currently 37 years old and has played 20 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), all of which have been for the Los Angeles Lakers. In addition, Bryant has won five NBA championships and has been selected as an All-Star 17 times. His Olympic experiences included two gold medals for Team USA in 2008 and 2012.

The explanation as to why this basketball icon is retiring is simply because his body can no longer handle the monumental stress and requirements of playing a professional sport.

On The Players’ Tribune, Kobe writes, “This season is all I have left to give.  My heart can take the pounding.  My mind can handle the grind but my body knows it’s time to say goodbye.”

While letting go of the game he has loved since a child may be a difficult task, Bryant seems to have come to terms that it is time to let go and move on.

“And that’s OK. I’m ready to let [basketball] go,” Bryant writes.

Bryant stated that his decision to retire was made a while ago after much contemplation and thought.

“I’ve known for a while,” Bryant said. “A decision like this, you can’t make the decision based on outside circumstances. It has to be an internal decision, and finally I’ve decided to accept that I can’t actually do this anymore, and I’m OK with that.”

The Lakers are currently suffering a devastating season with only three wins compared to 21 losses.  Also, Bryant’s field goal percentage and 3-point percentage rank last when compared to other qualified players in the NBA. However, he continues to show appreciation for his fans despite his tough season.

“I knew that each minute of each game I wore purple and gold. I honor it as I play today and for the rest of this season. My love for this city, this team and for each of you will never fade. Thank you for this incredible journey,” Bryant said in regard to his fans.

Ultimately, Kobe Bryant, the only player in history to play 20 seasons for the same NBA team, will try to move on after his final season and to be at peace with ending his extremely successful basketball career.