Close to 20,000 people will pack Staples Center on April 13 when the NBA bids adieu to one of its most successful sons, Kobe Bryant. The Los Angeles Lakers star will cap off his illustrious career against the Utah Jazz, but he doesn't expect his parents to be there when it happens.
In an interview with HBO's Andrea Kremer via CBS Sports, Bryant revealed he still hasn't mended fences with his parents, Joe and Pamela. He looks forward to making peace with them someday but he isn't in a hurry.
"The relationship with family is extremely important, but you also can't force things," said the five-time NBA champion. "And so I hope and I pray that one day, things will be better between us. Unfortunately, today's not that day."
Bryant was caught off guard when asked if his parents will be in attendance at Staples for his last hoorah. He quipped, "I've thought about it. Uh, I'm not sure. Probably not."
The 20-year NBA veteran was deeply hurt two years ago when his parents tried auctioning off his old memorabilia, including jerseys from when he was still playing in Italy as well as jerseys and trophies during his days at Lower Merion High School.
There were also stuff from his early years in the NBA like championship rings and signed basketballs. Daily Mail reported that the items amounted to roughly $1.5 million. Kobe accused his mother of selling stuff she did not own. Joe, meanwhile, sided with his wife.
A legal dispute later ensued between the Bryants. Kobe ultimately reached a settlement with Pamela and Ken Goldin of Goldin Auctions, but the damage had already been done.
Mrs. Bryant later said in a statement: "We apologize for any misunderstanding and unintended pain we have caused out son and appreciate the financial support he has provided over the years."
