Written by Erika Johnson for tonight's Bucks Game Program
One of the greatest basketball players of all time will play his final game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center tonight. During his 20 seasons in the league, Kobe Bryant has poured his heart and soul into the NBA game, showing his teammates, opponents and fans what a true professional looks like.
Bryant entered the 1996 NBA Draft directly out of his days at Lower Merion High School in Ardmore, Pa. At 18 years old, he was originally selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th overall pick in the draft, and was later acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Vlade Divac on July 11, 1996.