But Russell’s first season happened to coincide with Bryant’s 20th and final, all with the Lakers. Bryant’s impending retirement was announced in November. Every day, every game, every decision afterward — from the team’s off-court marketing to on-court basketball priorities — became about maximizing the financial gain and nostalgic appeal of the Kobe farewell tour. “D’Angelo came into a completely abnormal NBA environment,” Vitti said. “You know what it was. Kobe put asses in seats, right? I don’t think the world understands this: In 2016, we were the most profitable franchise. People came to see Kobe.”