Kobe drops out of Rio consideration

Kobe Bryant is passing the Olympic torch.

Bryant revealed on Saturday he is removing himself from consideration for a spot on the US team that will compete at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics this summer.

The decision means the five-time NBA champion's retirement begins officially when his 20th and final season with the Los Angeles Lakers ends.

Bryant made the announcement in Salt Lake City before the Lakers' game against the Utah Jazz.

He has informed USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo and Olympic coach Mike Krzyzewski of his decision.

He said it's simply time to move on, and let someone else - the younger stars like Stephen Curry - enjoy their Olympic journey.

"Since my retirement announcement, I'm able to watch these guys in a different light," said Bryant, a gold medallist in 2008 and 2012.

"I've come to terms with the fact that they are the future of this game. These are the guys who deserve the spots in Rio."

The NBA's No.3 all-time scorer, Bryant worried if he took a spot on the 12-man roster and then could not play because of injury he could wind up hurting the team's chances of winning gold.