Watch Michael Jordan Pay Tribute to Kobe Bryant in Pregame Video

Michael Jordan paid tribute to Kobe Bryant in a pregame video before Monday night’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets.

“I’m a big fan,” said Jordan, who was not in attendance Monday night at The Time Warner Cable Arena. “I still love watching you play.”

In the video, Jordan also calls Bryant a “big help to the game of basketball,” and refers to him as a little brother.

“We are very proud of what you have accomplished over the years,” Jordan added. “Have a great game. But not too good​”

Jordan, who is now the owner of the Charlotte Hornets, played against Bryant in the latter part of his illustrious NBA career.

Bryant, 37, is set to retire at the end of the 2015–16 season.

See Jordan’s message to Bryant above.

This article originally appeared on SI.com