Spike TV has named its first “Athlete of the Decade,” with the award going to legendary Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bryant. The award will be presented at the 10th annual “Guys Choice” awards.

The ceremony takes place Saturday, June 4, at Sony Pictures Studios, with the telecast to premiere Thursday, June 9, on Spike.

“By any measure, Kobe Bryant is a sports legend who exemplifies athletic excellence, world-class sportsmanship and stands as one of the greatest to have ever played the game,” said executive producer Casey Patterson. “Guys Choice is thrilled to be honoring Kobe’s remarkable and now legendary 20-year career in basketball.”

The announcement adds: “Throughout his illustrious 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant personified the highest level of excellence. The 5-time NBA World Champion, 18-time All-Star, 15-time member of the All-NBA team, 12-time member of the All-Defensive Team, 2-time Olympic Gold Medalist and 2008 MVP electrified a generation with his basketball brilliance.”

Bryant retired at the end of the recently concluded NBA regular season. Here are some highlights from his final game …