The Lakers head athletic trainer, Gary Vitti, confirmed this morning that Kobe Bryant had a “third-degree rupture” on his Achilles tendon. The injury was sustained last night in the final minute of the Lakers win over the Golden State Warriors. Kobe has been given a timetable of six to nine months for his recovery. Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said today that the beginning of next season is a realistic goal for his return.

Kobe made the decision to have surgery almost immediately. According to Lakers public relations, Kobe Bryant underwent a successful surgery this afternoon. Here is the full press release.