Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe
Bryant has applauded Magic Johnson's support for his gay son.
Earlier this week, Earvin “EJ”
Johnson III, a 20-year-old student at New York University, was
spotted by a TMZ.com film crew in Los Angeles with his boyfriend.
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The elder Johnson told TMZ.com that he
and his wife, Cookie, are proud of their son.
“Cookie and I love EJ and support him
in every way,” Magic Johnson said. “We're very proud of him.”
“Of course Magic is supportive of and
loves his son,” Bryant,
34, told TMZ.com. “Why should anyone be surprised?”
“What I can't tolerate is a lack of
tolerance,” Bryant added.
TMZ.com said Bryant's statement was
directed at “pro athletes whose teammates may soon come out of the
closet” and could have a “huge impact” on an whether a gay
player comes out.
(Related: Kobe
Bryant calls out anti-gay tweet.)