Kobe Bryant cleared medically for all basketball activities

ESPN.com and Bleacher Report cited league sources in reporting Bryant had been cleared to play.

Recently, a confident Hibbert told Kobe Bryant that he is prepared to take charge of defense this coming season.

Bryant’s contract expires at the end of this season, and all momentum indicates that 2015-16 will basically amount to a swan song for one of the greatest players in league history.

Kobe Bryant is reportedly ready to return to his usual practice routine ahead of schedule.

In the past two seasons, Bryant has played in only a combined 41 games.

The potential for one last Kobe Bryant hurrah is possible.

Bryant enjoyed a banner campaign for the star-crossed 2012-2013 Lakers, remaking his playing style with more frequent forays to the paint and a higher share of three-point attempts. Over the last two seasons, he’s averaged 21.1 points on 37.8 percent from the field.

“It’s his decision”, Buss said, although he acknowledged that Bryant might have to accept a reduced role. This year the Lakers have the luxury of a little more depth especially at the guard positions which should help lighten the load for their superstar. Bryant went down with a torn rotator last season requiring season-ending surgery and another long recovery process for the five-time NBA champion. Even at his advanced age, Kobe still beat the timetable due to his insane work ethic, and it would be hard to bet against him going into this season.

Bryant’s recovery from his latest devastating late-career injury, a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder, is complete – and he currently has no physical limitations as he gears up for what he expects will be his final NBA season.