Lakers sign Kobe to 3-year extension

EL SEGUNDO, Calif (AP) - Kobe Bryant is staying with the Los Angeles Lakers for another three years.

The deal means the Lakers achieved two main objectives going into the season - signing Bryant and Pau Gasol to extensions.

"We were able to accomplish those goals, helping to keep the core of this team intact for the foreseeable future and in turn help to ensure the franchise's continued success over the years to come," General manager Mitch Kupchak said Friday on the team's Web site.

Financial terms of Bryant's deal weren't announced. Gasol signed earlier in the season.

The 31-year Bryant could have terminated the last two years of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent last July. He could've gotten a new, longer deal if he had opted out, but he wouldn't have necessarily made more money.

Bryant is averaging 27.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists this season. He's helped the Lakers win four NBA titles, including last season when he was the Finals MVP.

The 12-time All-Star was voted league MVP in 2008 when he helped the U.S. win a gold medal in the Beijing Olympics. This season, he moved past Jerry West to become the Lakers' all-time leading scorer.

The West-leading Lakers are coming off a 2-3 road trip and host the Utah Jazz on Friday night.