Kobe Bryant unveils 'ugly holiday sweater' to benefit his foundation

The Los Angeles Lakers playing on Christmas has almost become as synonymous as Kobe Bryant playing for the Lakers. But now that the Black Mamba has retired, he won't be taking the court Dec. 25 as the Lakers participate in their 16th consecutive Christmas game.

That hasn't stopped Bryant, who played in an NBA-record 16 Christmas contests, from reveling in the holiday spirit.

On Friday, the future Hall of Famer unveiled an "ugly holiday sweater" that he is promoting to benefit theKobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation, which provides financial resources and programming to strengthen communities through educational and cultural enrichment opportunities.

Available in purple or black, the sweater features a rendering of Bryant in a Santa Claus costume holding a bag with a basketball under the heading "Merry Swish-mas." Candy canes, Christmas trees and additional basketballs dot the background of the design.

There is also an option to toggle between 8 and 24 in regard to Bryant's number on the $40 sweater, which is only available for purchase until Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Bryant scored a total of 395 points on Christmas, an NBA record.

-- Nick Ostiller