Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bean Bryant (born August 23, 1978 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) is a National Basketball Association player for the Los Angeles Lakers; he is also the son of former NBA player Joe "Jellybean" Bryant.

NBA Career

Bryant's career trajectory as an NBA player out of high school has been exceptional. By the age of 24, Bryant had already won many individual accolades, from inclusion in the All-NBA teams and a seven time selection as a NBA All-Star. Bryant, along with former teammate Shaquille O'Neal, helped lead the Lakers as perennial championship contenders, resulting in three consecutive NBA championships in 2000, 2001, and 2002. The Lakers also ventured to the 2004 Finals against the Detroit Pistons, but lost the series four games to one. Following the loss to the Pistons, Bryant opted out of his contract to test the free agent market. After flirting with the idea of joining several teams, including the Lakers' cross-town rivals the Los Angeles Clippers, he signed a new seven-year deal with the Lakers worth over $136 million on July 15, 2004.

Related Topics:
Shaquille O'Neal - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - Detroit Pistons - Free agent - Los Angeles Clippers - July 15 - 2004

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Bryant's youth, style, good looks, and accomplishments on and off the basketball court made him one of the most popular and marketable players. He became a spokesperson for major corporations such as McDonald's and Coca-Cola. He had an exclusive apparel and shoe deal with Adidas and he is currently under contract with Nike.

Related Topics:
McDonald's - Coca-Cola - Adidas - Nike

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Much of Kobe Bryant's meteoric rise to NBA super stardom is attributed to his consummate work ethic. In each of his years in the league, Kobe showed improvement in all areas of his game, from shooting to strength to defense. On-court he is a very composed and competitive player with impressive concentration, able to deliver the toughest and clutch shots at the times most needed. It is these attributes that have made him a premier player in the NBA.

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