Who is Kobe Bryant? Who is this man that many call the Black Mamba?

There is many answers based on people’s point of view but there is no doubt that he is one of (if not the) greatest to ever play the game of basketball. As bold of a statement that is, the truth behind this is very clear. Kobe “Bean” Bryant was drafted to the NBA in 1996, to the Charlotte Hornets, later traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, straight out of high school. No one expected an 18 year-old high school senior to make a huge impact like he made when he came into the league.   

From becoming the rookie with the hype to the kid winning rings, Kobe aligned himself with a superstar center in Shaquille O’Neal in 1999. On Wednesday, April 13th, a legendary career came to a close as Kobe Bryant played his final NBA game after 20 seasons in the league. In Mamba fashion, he went out at Staples Center with 60 points and a win against the Utah Jazz, making him the oldest player to ever reach that figure.

Before the game, the long retired NBA legend O’Neal challenged Bryant to make at least 50 points for his final game. Boy, did the former senior from Long Merion High School deliver! After the game and the win, Kobe gave a speech and thanked the fans for always being loyal to the Black Mamba when times were rough and when the times were great.

Now, after the final game, fans and players all around wonder what will the Mamba do after basketball. Only time will tell on what he will do in the future, but for now and forever, Kobe Bryant’s legacy and love for the game of basketball will live on.