Estefanía Martínez
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After the Laker's star passed in January 2020 the NBA was left with a void that will be hard to fill. He has been now introduced to the famous Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame by his wife Vanessa, and we remember some incredible facts about the star. Read more below!
1. He took a music star to his prom
When Kobe was 17 and without knowing, he was already destined to stardom. He took the singer Brandy, as a date to his prom.
2. He grew up in Italy
His father Joe "Jellybean" Bryant moved in 1984 to Rieti, Italy, to play basketball. At the time, Kobe was 6 years old and learned how to speak fluent Italian and Spanish. He started to play in the youth teams and developed a unique style that made him a star in the United States.
3. He was almost a rapper!
In case you didn't know, Bryant was signed to Sony and released a song named K.O.B.E. featuring Tyra Banks. After the track dropped, the contract ended. His future was in sports. Great decision!
4) He was one of the richest athletes in the world
Product from his salary and marketing contracts, the basketball player managed to make a fortune of almost $600 million. Movie and book rights, image usage, conferences, restaurants and mobile apps were among his business ventures.
5) Michael Jordan was one of his best friends
"When Kobe died a piece of me died"
Jordan called Bryant his "little brother". They used to talk about basketball and they had the honor of winning gold medals for the United States in the Olympic Games(Michael in 1984 and 1992, Kobe in 2008 and 2012). They supported each other, respected and loved each other. Jordan revealed in an interview that he was the most passionate player he ever met.
This kid had passion like you would never know."