WHO IS KOBE

Kobe Bryant was a legendary professional basketball player who spent his entire 20-year
career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA (National Basketball Association). Born on
August 23, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kobe became one of the most iconic and
accomplished basketball players in history.

He entered the NBA directly from high school in 1996, being drafted by the Charlotte
Hornets before being traded to the Lakers. Bryant quickly established himself as a
talented and dedicated player known for his exceptional skills, work ethic, and
competitive spirit. His extraordinary athleticism, scoring ability, footwork, and basketball
IQ made him a dominant force on the court.

Throughout his career, Bryant achieved numerous accolades, including five NBA
championships with the Lakers, two NBA Finals MVP awards, and 18 All-Star selections.
He also won two Olympic gold medals with the USA Men's Basketball team.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Kobe was admired for his dedication to the game, his
"Mamba mentality" (a term he coined that symbolized relentless determination and
perseverance), and his commitment to inspiring others to pursue their passions. He
retired from professional basketball in 2016.

Tragically, Kobe Bryant, along with his daughter Gianna and seven others, passed away
in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. His legacy as one of the greatest basketball
players of all time continues to resonate globally, both on and off the court.