The Passing of a Legend: Why Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality Built An Entire Generation
First NBA Championship for Kobe Bryant in 2001 (Getty Images)
Originally written for Kulture Hub by former Style Editor Cassell Ferere
“If you’re going to be a leader, you’re not going to please everybody. You gotta hold people accountable, even if you have that moment of being uncomfortable.”
– Kobe Bryant
The Mamba
He polarized fans from all over the world while bringing them together for the same love of basketball. But more than that he was a symbol of determination and focused. Kobe Bryant inspired a generation of people to be the best or at least make sure you are working toward that every day.
No Excuses!
One of the rare highschool jumps to the NBA, Kobe Bryant had a chip on his shoulder being the son of Joe “Jellybean” Bryant, former NBA player.
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But he was humbled by his upbringing and grew to understand a worth ethic necessary to achieve a level of greatness beyond what his father would not be able too.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JUNE 12: Guard Kobe Bryant #8 of the Los Angeles Lakers changes into his uniform in the locker room before Game Four of the 2002 NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey on June 12, 2002. The Lakers defeated the Nets 113-107 and won the series 4-0. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2002 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein /NBAE/Getty Images)
As Kobe entered the NBA and became a public figure he carried himself as a student of the game. Although professional, the Kobe Bryant mindset was what made him popular.
Known for his “first in – last out” of the gym mentality and his studious behavior within the NBA’s elite.
Not to mention the homage fashion statements, like wearing Jordan jerseys to games.
He even followed in the footsteps of a fellow great teammate, Shaq. And with a passion for rap music, he put out various records over his NBA tenure.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JUNE 12: Guard Kobe Bryant #8 of the Los Angeles Lakers smokes a celebratory cigar as he gives an interview to the media after winning Game Four of the 2002 NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey on June 12, 2002. The Lakers defeated the Nets 113-107 and won the series 4-0. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2002 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE/Getty Images)
The Leader
Some may argue his stats but ‘real’ fans argued his strengths. Teammates may have argued his camaraderie but couldn’t question his leadership. Opponents may have fallen to his game, and he may have to theirs, but the level of play was expected in every encounter. He has his high times and his low periods, but persevered none the less.
"The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great at whatever they want to do."
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Common saying: "It is better to be respected than it is to be popular", and Kobe is respected by many, and was fortunate enough to be just as popular. Kobe was a man who saw the opportunity in his failures; "everything negative -- pressure, challenges -- is all an opportunity for me to rise", speaking into existence his destiny.
The Man
Even off the court, his humility for sports and competition was evident, in his global efforts as a face of the NBA and basketball, encouraging millions of people to be better than they thought they could. From his last game in the league scoring 60 points, to his first day as a retired NBA player he was set to influence the game and grow its reach.
His dedication resonated, receiving an Academy Award for his basketball documentary about the game of basketball, Dear Basketball, to his efforts as basketball coach of his second daughter’s team, Gianni. She was also in the fatal helicopter crash which claimed their lives and the lives of 7 other friends and family, including the pilot.
The Legend
Bryant was about spreading the belief of opportunity, and instilling what it took to get to achieve what it is you wanted to.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - JUNE 12: Kobe Bryant #8 of the Los Angeles Lakers prepares for Game four of the 2002 NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets on June 12, 2002 at Continental Airlines Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Lakers won 113-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory copyright notice: Copyright 2002 NBAE (Photo by: Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE/Getty Images)
Kobe Bryant will be missed; from the game of basketball and the game of life. But, believe that his legacy will live long enough into the generations to come, regarding it to mysticism, maybe. To those that got to watch or even a reluctant glimpse at his greatness, you were exposed to a man focused on the game of life and conquering it around every turn.
"The moment you give up, is the moment you let someone else win."
- Kobe Bryant
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