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Kobe Bryant hoping for career 'rebirth', not planning on retirement

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The Black Mamba isn't going away any time soon. At least, not while he can help it.

In an interview with NBA TV, which aired Monday night, Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant reaffirmed that there's more in store for the injured 36-year-old.

"I can't say it is the end," Bryant said during the interview, as relayed by ESPN. "I thought the (San Antonio) Spurs were done 20 years ago. Those guys are still winning.

"So, to answer the question (regarding retirement), I can't say this is the end of my era because I thought their (era) was done and they're still there. So I'm hoping I can have the same rebirth."

Bryant appeared in just six games last season due to an Achilles injury and was limited to just 35 this season after sustaining a torn rotator cuff.

Despite shooting a woeful percentage from the field, Bryant looked surprisingly spry as the season started, and proved he still had enough left in the tank to play at a high level. Bryant averaged 22.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 34.5 minutes. Those averages, coupled with his tremendous popularity, was enough to see Bryant voted in as a starter for the All-Star Game.

Moreover, Bryant's contract calls for him to earn $25 million next season. Add in Bryant's torrid pursuit of the all-time points record, and there's still plenty left to be accomplished for the 17-time All-Star.

Bryant also touched upon various notable relationships he formed - and severed - over the course of his career. Bryant waxed poetic about Michael Jordan and championships, while shedding light on his relationship with Shaquille O'Neal.

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