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The Lakers believe that Kobe Bryant suffered a torn left Achilles in Friday's game against the Warriors.

The team will conduct an MRI to confirm the diagnosis on Saturday, but revealing that information so soon doesn't bode well for Bryant. Kobe said he felt his Achilles tear and there was "nothing there," then limped back to the locker room under his own power. This could be a horrible way to end his season and he went down fighting hard all the way to the bitter end after sustaining injuries to both of his knees during this game, as well. The Black Mamba was crying while talking to reporters and he put his heart and soul into this tumultuous season for the Lakers. He said the next steps are "MRI, surgery and recovery," so it doesn't sound like we've seen the last of one of the greatest players in NBA history. Jodie Meeks would likely start in Kobe's place for the rest of the season.

Kobe Bryant's torn left Achilles is expected to be a complete tear of the tendon, according to Kevin Ding of the Orange Country Register.

It's painful to hear, but it makes sense since Kobe said he could feel that his Achilles wasn't attached to his heel. He will have an MRI on Saturday and there's little doubt that it will confirm this initial diagnosis. Rehabs on Achilles tears tend to be 6-8 months, so there's still a chance he can return by the beginning of next season. We'll be watching his rehab very closely every step of the way and we're not counting him out to be a major force in the 2013-2014 season.

Kobe Bryant had surgery to repair his torn left Achilles tendon on Saturday, and he will miss a "minimum" of 6-9 months.

Kobe's work ethic and toughness are unimpeachable, but the 34-year-old faces a steep road to be ready for opening night of the 2013-14 season. He finished his season third in the league in scoring at 27.3 points per game, while adding 1.7 threes, 5.6 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.4 steals.

Kobe Bryant ‏@kobebryant

Random tears of devastation and doubt mixed with inner determination and will

#countonfamily #countonprayer THANKU #vicodintweets comin ha!

This is such BS! All the training and sacrifice just flew out the window with one step that I've done millions of times! The frustration is unbearable. The anger is rage. Why the hell did this happen ?!? Makes no damn sense. Now I'm supposed to come back from this and be the same player Or better at 35?!? How in the world am I supposed to do that??

I have NO CLUE. Do I have the consistent will to overcome this thing? Maybe I should break out the rocking chair and reminisce on the career that was. Maybe this is how my book ends. Maybe Father Time has defeated me...Then again maybe not! It's 3:30am, my foot feels like dead weight, my head is spinning from the pain meds and I'm wide awake. Forgive my Venting but what's the purpose of social media if I won't bring it to you Real No Image?? Feels good to vent, let it out. To feel as if THIS is the WORST thing EVER! Because After ALL the venting, a real perspective sets in. There are far greater issues/challenges in the world then a torn achilles. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, find the silver lining and get to work with the same belief, same drive and same conviction as ever.

One day, the beginning of a new career journey will commence. Today is NOT that day.

"If you see me in a fight with a bear, prey for the bear". Ive always loved that quote. Thats "mamba mentality" we don't quit, we don't cower, we don't run. We endure and conquer.

I know it's a long post but I'm Facebook Venting LOL. Maybe now I can actually get some sleep and be excited for surgery tomorrow. First step of a new challenge.

Guess I will be Coach Vino the rest of this season. I have faith in my teammates. They will come thru.
Thank you for all your prayers and support. Much Love Always.

Mamba Out

Dave McMenamin ✔ @mcten

Kobe has tears in his eyes and is on crutches. "Terrible. This is a terrible feeling." He says he knows it's a torn Achilles

Dave McMenamin ✔ @mcten

Kobe says it's "by far" the biggest disappointment of his career. Bryant: "Just s--- luck."

ROballer wrote:

Dave McMenamin ✔ @mcten

Kobe has tears in his eyes and is on crutches. "Terrible. This is a terrible feeling." He says he knows it's a torn Achilles

Dave McMenamin @mcten

Kobe has tears in his eyes and is on crutches. "Terrible. This is a terrible feeling." He says he knows it's a torn Achilles