Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, left an indelible mark on the game and on fans’ hearts. As much as we feel we know about him and his achievements, there are still some lesser-known facts about Kobe that are worth exploring. In this article, we’ll delve into 10 lesser-known facts about Kobe Bryant that every fan must know.
1. Kobe’s parents didn’t want him to play basketball
It may come as a surprise to some, but Kobe’s parents, Joe “Jellybean” Bryant and Pamela Cox Bryant, didn’t encourage him to play the sport that made him famous. They wanted him to focus on his studies. Nevertheless, Kobe was determined to be a basketball star and found ways to practice even when his parents weren’t supportive.
2. He was named after a type of steak
Kobe’s parents named him after the famous beef found in Kobe, Japan. They later found out that they had spelled his name wrong but decided to stick with it anyway.
3. He spoke multiple languages
In addition to English, Kobe spoke Italian and Spanish fluently. He learned both languages while living in Italy with his family when his father played basketball there.
4. He was a passionate advocate for women’s sports
Kobe was vocal about his support for women’s basketball and was often seen courtside at WNBA games. He also coached his daughter Gianna’s youth basketball team.
5. He wrote a poem about basketball at age 17
Kobe’s passion for basketball was evident early on. At age 17, he wrote a poem called “Dear Basketball” that later became an Oscar-winning animated short film.
6. Kobe was a skilled soccer player
Kobe was not only talented on the basketball court but also on the soccer field. He grew up playing the sport and even considered pursuing it professionally before deciding to focus on basketball.
7. He was a bookworm
Kobe was an avid reader and often credited books with shaping his worldview. His favorite book was “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.
8. He was a fierce competitor
Kobe’s competitive nature was one of his defining qualities. He once faced off against teammate Sasha Vujacic in a chess match and refused to concede until he had defeated him.
9. The number 24 was not his original choice
Kobe originally wanted to wear the number 33, the same number his father wore during his playing career. However, that number was already retired by the Lakers, so he chose 8 instead. He later switched to 24, a number that represented a new beginning and a fresh start.
10. He won an Oscar
In addition to his numerous basketball accolades, Kobe also won an Academy Award for his animated short film “Dear Basketball” in 2018. He wrote and narrated the film, which depicted his love for the sport and his journey as a basketball player.
In conclusion, these lesser-known facts about Kobe Bryant offer a glimpse into the multi-faceted life of a basketball legend. From his early struggles to his later triumphs, Kobe’s legacy is one that will be remembered for generations to come.
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