Kobe hopes fans don't choose him for All-Stars

LOS ANGELES — While Kobe Bryant heals from his latest injury, he has an unusual campaign message for the fans who select the NBA All-Star game's starters: Don't vote for me.

The Los Angeles Lakers' superstar guard is hoping fans elect younger, more deserving players to start next month's showcase in New Orleans.

Bryant is a 15-time All-Star selection, a four-time All-Star game MVP and the top scorer in the game's history. He says he'd be honored if he's voted in again, but isn't even sure he'll be ready to play.

Bryant has played in just six games this season, and he's out for several more weeks while a broken bone near his knee heals.

He made his season debut Dec. 8, eight months after tearing his Achilles tendon