Kobe made the decision to forego college and pursue the NBA draft after finishing high school. He was selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1996 draft, but was soon transferred to the Los Angeles Lakers. He played for the Lakers for the entirety of his 20-year career, becoming to be one of their most recognizable and adored players. Kobe was renowned for his extraordinary work ethic and his unwavering quest for excellence on the floor. He won the NBA title five times and was selected for the All-Star team 18 times.
Off the court, Kobe was a loving father and husband. He and his wife, Vanessa, had four daughters: Natalia, Gianna, Bianka, and Capri. Kobe and Gianna were particularly close, and they often attended Lakers games together. Tragically, both Kobe and Gianna were killed in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. The loss of Kobe and Gianna was deeply felt by the entire basketball community and beyond. They are remembered not only for their incredible talents and achievements, but also for the touching way they touched the lives of so many people.