The Black Mamba did things that made everyone shake his head and say only Kobe can do that. However, he appeared human again when he tore his Achilles in a game against the Golden State Warriors. Not letting something like a ruptured tendon slow him down, Kobe got back up to his feet, made two free throws, and then walked off the court on his own. It was the worst injury the Lakers star had suffered in his career, but he vowed he would return this season.
http://youtu.be/5NqRrONH5KY
Bryant was unable to play in the opening game this season, instead watching from the bench. It was a very unfamiliar site for Lakers fans. However, after signing a 2 year contract extension worth $48 million, Bryant returned to the court on December 8th in a game against the Raptors. It was not his best game, but it was just great to see the Black Mamba back on the court. He progressed in every game he played, until he suffered a major setback.
In a game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Bryant hyperextended his knee. He managed to finish the game, but an MRI revealed he suffered a fractured lateral tibial plateau on the same leg that he suffered the torn Achilles. He is expected to be out at least six weeks. It is expected that he will miss more time and possibly not play again this season. It is hard to see one of the greatest players ever go through such difficult injuries, but he will return and he will be a difference maker on the court.
