Yesterday we lost a sports legend, Kobe Bryant. Today, we’re sharing with you why Bryant is being mourned by so many - he was so much more than basketball. He was a man who wasn’t perfect, but never claimed to be. He was one of the best in the history of the game and inspired generations of basketball players, athletes and go-getters around the world.
Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife Vanessa, daughters Natalia, Bianca and Capri and the families of all the victims. We hope you take the next three minutes to read a little bit more about Kobe “Black Mamba” Bryant who was just starting his second act.
Still in shock,
The Last Night’s Game Team
NBA (National Basketball Association)
Kobe Bryant, 41, and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” were amongst nine victims who died yesterday in a helicopter crash. The basketball loving father-daughter duo were en route to Gigi’s basketball game. His career accomplishments are awe-inspiring - five-time champion, MVP, all-star, gold medalist and the list goes on. He remains the only person in the NBA to have two jersey numbers retired (8 and 24). GONE TOO SOON
Overtime
Bryant was a man of many talents. He was raised in Italy and spoke three different languages. He would occasionally pick up another, like Slovak, to talk trash. Once, he wanted to learn how to play the piano for his wife but instead of hiring a piano teacher, which was the easy way out, he taught himself. He put on headphones and listened to Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata" on repeat until he perfected it. WHAT COULDN’T HE DO?
Sideline stat
On Saturday night LeBron James passed Bryant to overtake third place on the NBA’s career scoring list. Before the game, James wrote "Mamba 4 Life" and "8/24 KB" (a tribute to Bryant’s jersey numbers) in gold marker on his shoes to honor the legend he was about to surpass. In his final tweet, Bryant took to Twitter to congratulate James on his accomplishment saying “Continuing to move the game forward @KingJames. Much respect my brother 💪🏾 #33644.” RESPECT
Coaches’ corner
Bryant was known for his love of the game but it extended beyond the NBA. He was a vivacious supporter of the WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association) and a friend and mentor to women’s basketball players from his daughter’s team, to the college level and of course, the WNBA. PROUD PAPA
What to watch
As part of his second act, after leaving basketball Bryant turned his passion toward entertainment, founding Granity Studios, where he won an Oscar for “Dear Basketball.” TELL THE STORY
We’ll bring you Super Bowl coverage on Wednesday. Until then, channel the "Mamba mentality" and be fearless like Kobe.
