When Kobe Bryant was drafted, Oklahoma City was still more than a decade from having its own NBA franchise. But as Bryant's basketball legacy nears completion — he recently announced plans to retire at the end of this season — his profound impact has extended to OKC.
Bryant was part of the first playoff game in the city's history, scoring 24 points against a young Thunder team back on April 22, 2010. A couple years later, on May 21, 2012, Bryant played what will likely be his last playoff game. It was in Oklahoma City. The Lakers lost, but he scored 42 points.