Magic Johnson tells Kobe Bryant he's the 'greatest to wear the purple and gold'

Before the start of Kobe Bryant's final game as a Laker, another legend took to the court to offer the retiring star his praise and congratulations.

Earvin "Magic" Johnson told the crowd that as a player, Bryant never "cheated the game" or "cheated us as fans. He's played through injuries. He's played hurt. And we have five championship games to show for it." He called Bryant the "biggest and greatest celebrity we've had in this town for 20 years," and said he's "not only a great and unbelievable sports icon but also he's the greatest to wear the purple and gold."

Johnson listed off Bryant's accomplishments — 19 Laker records, nine NBA records — and reminded the crowd that Bryant "has scored 25 times over 50 points. He's scored over 60 points five times. And we all knew where we were when he scored 81 points." He ended his introduction by instructing the crowd to give Bryant "the biggest, longest standing ovation that he's ever seen in his life."

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