The Black Mamba: Kobe Bryant

 The Black Mamba is one of the best NBA players of all time, and behind Jordan, he is probably the most famous and popular. Kobe was drafted into the NBA in 1996, and he only retired just this year. Kobe is none for his incredible scoring ability, which culminated in his 81 point game against the Raptors in 2001 ( the second highest scoring game ever) and his almost psychotic attitude towards training and preparation, which he called 'The Mamba Mentality'.

 Kobe spent his early years between Italy and the United States, as his father, Joe '"Jellybean"' Bryant played in the Italian professional league. Because of the lack of consistency, Kobe didn't have many friends as a child, so he spent all of his time playing basketball. In 1991, when Kobe was 13, his father retired and they returned to Philadelphia permanently. Over the next 5 years, Kobe would shoot to national recognition as one of the best High School Players in the country. In 1996, he graduated from High School and skipped College to go straight to the NBA.

Kobe was drafted 13th overall in 1996 by the Charlotte Hornets, but was immediately traded to the Lakers the same night. Over the next 20 years, Kobe would build an incredible legacy for himself. His accolades include a 5x NBA Champion, 18x NBA All Star, 2x Finals MVP, 11x All NBA First Team, and 9x All NBA Defensive First Team.

 Kobe's Lakers in the early 2000's, which he played alongside another all time great in Shaquille O'Neal, is considered one of the best dynasties in NBA history. Kobe is truly one of the all time greats.