by Brandon Richard

Compared to Michael Jordan throughout his 20-year career, Kobe Bryant is now being honored by the man himself as he prepares to retire from basketball.

At a Jordan Brand event in Toronto tonight, Bryant was recognized by Jordan and the Jordan Brand. According to ernnytheman, The All-Star shooting guard was given complete I through XXX sets of Air Jordans in all-black and and all-white colorways. And, with a special Kobe Bryant themed pack rumored for release this month, a few of his old Player Exclusive colorways are also on display.

The source adds that a set of Kobe's Jordans will be auctioned off, as well. More on this story as it develops.

UPDATE: Jordan Brand provides an official look at Kobe's complete Air Jordan sets, including detailed images of the Air Jordan 3 and Air Jordan 8 PEs featured in each collection. Additionally, a complete black set in Kobe's size 14 is being auctioned off on eBay for charity. The auction runs through the weekend.