Kobe Bryant turning farewell poem into animated short film

Newly retired Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant's infamous farewell poem for The Player's Tribune back in November is getting the film treatment.

In conjunction with Sports Illustrated, Bryant and his production company, Kobe Studios, will be working on turning his "Dear Basketball" poem into an animated short film, which will premiere on the site late this fall.

"Dear Basketball is the perfect tribute to something I’ve loved for so long," Bryant said in a statement. “Working with Sports Illustrated on this special project is an amazing opportunity to hopefully inspire fans all over the world.”

Several mini-documentaries will follow its release, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at what went into making the film.

Glenn Keane, who's worked on such movies as "The Little Mermaid" and "The Rescuers," will animate the film. Five-time Academy Award winner John Williams will compose the music, while Bryant himself will act as narrator.

Bryant ended his career as a five-time NBA champion, an 18-time All-Star, and the third-highest scorer in league history.