History of Kobe Bryant in Timeline
Kobe Bryant, a celebrated shooting guard, played 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming a basketball icon. He secured five NBA championships, earned 18 All-Star selections, and was named the 2008 NBA MVP. Bryant received two NBA Finals MVP awards and twice led the league in scoring. He holds the fourth position in all-time NBA regular season and postseason scoring. Posthumously, he was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, once individually in 2020 and again in 2025 as part of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.
1962: Chamberlain's 100-Point Game
In 1962, Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points, setting the NBA record for the highest individual score in a single game.
1964: Bryant Joins Elite Scoring Company
In January 2006, Kobe Bryant became the first player since 1964 to score 45 points or more in four consecutive games, joining Wilt Chamberlain and Elgin Baylor.
1969: West's NBA Finals Performance
In the 1969 NBA Finals, Jerry West averaged at least 32.4 points and 7.4 assists, a feat that Kobe Bryant matched in later years.
August 23, 1978: Kobe Bryant's Birth
On August 23, 1978, Kobe Bean Bryant was born. He would become a professional basketball player.
1983: Four Lakers Selected to All-Star Game
In Kobe Bryant's second season in the NBA, 1983 was the first time since that four players on the same team were selected to play in the same All-Star Game. Bryant became the youngest NBA All-Star starter in NBA history and was the runner-up for the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year Award.
1987: Father Played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
From 1987 to 1989, Kobe Bryant's father played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia where he paired with former Detroit Pistons player Leon Douglas.
1987: Jordan's last 50-plus point game streak
In 1987, Michael Jordan was the last player before Kobe Bryant to score 50+ points in three straight games.
1988: Lakers Last Championship
In 1988, prior to the 2000 NBA Finals victory, the Lakers had last won a championship.
1989: Father Played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
From 1987 to 1989, Kobe Bryant's father played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia where he paired with former Detroit Pistons player Leon Douglas.
1990: Pistons Win First Championship
In 2004, the Detroit Pistons won their first championship since 1990.
1995: Consideration of NBA Draft
After Kevin Garnett entered the 1995 NBA draft, Kobe Bryant began considering going directly to the pros.
1995: MVP Award at Adidas ABCD Camp
At Adidas ABCD Camp in 1995, Kobe Bryant earned the senior MVP award.
May 1996: Brandy's Prom Date
In May 1996, Kobe Bryant was Brandy's date to her Hollywood High School senior prom, marking a personal connection outside of his burgeoning basketball career.
July 9, 1996: Trade to the Lakers Finalized
On July 9, 1996, the trade sending Kobe Bryant to the Los Angeles Lakers was finalized after Vlade Divac relented on his threat to retire. Since Bryant was still 17 at the time, his parents had to co-sign his contract with the Lakers.
1996: Signed with Adidas
Before starting the 1996–97 season, Kobe Bryant signed a six-year contract with Adidas worth approximately $48 million, and his first signature shoe was the Equipment KB 8.
1996: Scrimmaged Against Former Lakers Players
Before the 1996 NBA draft, Kobe Bryant worked out in Los Angeles where he scrimmaged against former Lakers players.
1996: Decision to Enter the NBA Draft
In 1996, 17-year-old Kobe Bryant decided to go directly into the NBA, becoming only the sixth player in NBA history to do so, and took R&B singer Brandy to her Hollywood High senior prom.
1996: Debuted in Summer Pro League
In 1996, Kobe Bryant debuted in the Summer Pro League in Long Beach, California, and also became the second-youngest player ever to play in an NBA game.
1997: Appearance on Hang Time
In 1997, Kobe Bryant appeared on an episode of Hang Time, continuing his forays into television entertainment.
1997: Performance at Sway & King Tech Concert and Appearance on Hang Time
In 1997, Kobe Bryant performed at a concert by Sway & King Tech and recorded a verse for a remix of Brian McKnight's "Hold Me". Additionally, Bryant appeared on an episode of Hang Time, furthering his involvement in entertainment alongside his basketball career in 1997.
1997: Bryant Won NBA Slam Dunk Contest
In 1997, Kobe Bryant won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest and became its youngest winner.
1998: Guest Appearance on All That and Turning Down Role in He Got Game
In 1998, Kobe Bryant appeared on the Nickelodeon sketch comedy series All That. Also in 1998, he turned down the role of Jesus Shuttlesworth in Spike Lee's film He Got Game, stating his summer was too busy.
1998: Started Every Game for Lakers
In the 1998-99 season, Kobe Bryant started every game for the Lakers during the lockout-shortened season.
November 1999: Met Vanessa Laine
In November 1999, 21-year-old Kobe Bryant met 17-year-old Vanessa Laine while she was working as a background dancer on the Tha Eastsidaz music video "G'd Up."
1999: Featured on Destiny's Child Remix
In 1999, Kobe Bryant was featured on a remix of "Say My Name" by Destiny's Child, which was included on the Maxi single version of the song.
1999: Hand Injury Sidelines Bryant
In 1999, Kobe Bryant was sidelined for six weeks due to a hand injury he incurred during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards.
1999: Phil Jackson Becomes Lakers Coach
In 1999, Phil Jackson became the coach of the Lakers, improving Kobe Bryant's fortunes.
January 2000: Debut of "K.O.B.E" and Abandonment of Visions Album
In January 2000, Kobe Bryant's first single, "K.O.B.E", featuring Tyra Banks, debuted and was performed at NBA All-Star Weekend. However, the single was not well-received, which led Sony to abandon plans for his debut album, Visions. Ultimately, Sony dropped Bryant later in 2000.
May 2000: Engaged to Vanessa Laine
In May 2000, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Laine got engaged six months after meeting, while Laine was still a senior at Marina High School.
2000: Lakers Championship Victory
In 2000, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal led the Lakers to win 67 games. Bryant was named to the All-NBA Second Team and All-NBA Defensive Team for the first time. In the 2000 Finals against the Indiana Pacers, despite an ankle injury, Bryant led the team to an overtime victory in Game 4. The Lakers won their first championship since 1988 with a 116-111 victory in Game 6.
2000: First NBA Championship with Phil Jackson
In 2000, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers won their first of three consecutive championships under Phil Jackson's coaching.
2000: Declined to play in the Olympics
In 2000, Kobe Bryant declined to participate in the Olympics due to his wedding plans during the off-season.
2000: Won First NBA Championship
In 2000, Kobe Bryant won the first of three consecutive NBA championships with the Lakers.
2000: First gold medal for USA in a worldwide competition
In 2000, The Olympics, Team USA secured its first gold medal in a worldwide competition.
2000: Bryant's Statistical Performance and Team Leadership
In the 2000-01 NBA season, Kobe Bryant's statistical performance was similar to the previous year, but he averaged six more points per game, totaling 28.5. He also led the team in assists with five per game.
2000: 2000 Western Conference Finals
The Lakers faced a seven-game series in the 2000 Western Conference Finals.
April 18, 2001: Married Vanessa Laine
On April 18, 2001, Kobe Bryant married Vanessa Laine at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Dana Point, California, in a ceremony not attended by his parents or Laker teammates.
2001: Won Second NBA Championship
In 2001, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers won their second consecutive NBA championship.
2001: Bryant's All-Star MVP Trophy Claim
In 2001-02 season, Bryant claimed his first All-Star MVP trophy after a 31-point performance in Philadelphia, although he was booed by fans.
January 14, 2002: Bryant's Career-High Scoring Game Against Grizzlies
On January 14, 2002, Kobe Bryant scored a career-high 56 points, along with five rebounds and four assists, in a 120-81 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
January 2002: Bought house in Newport Coast
In January 2002, Kobe Bryant bought a Mediterranean-style house for $4 million, located on a cul-de-sac in Newport Coast, Newport Beach.
March 1, 2002: Bryant Punches Reggie Miller, Suspended One Game
On March 1, 2002, after the Lakers' victory over the Indiana Pacers, Kobe Bryant punched Reggie Miller and was subsequently suspended for one game.
2002: Bryant's First Game of the 2002-03 Season
During the first game of the 2002-03 season, Bryant recorded 27 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and four steals in an 87-82 loss to the San Antonio Spurs.
2002: Won Third Consecutive NBA Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers won their third consecutive NBA championship.
2002: Declined to play in the FIBA World Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant decided not to play in the FIBA World Championship.
2002: Lakers Third Consecutive NBA Finals Appearance and Championship
In 2002, the Lakers made their third consecutive NBA Finals appearance, with Kobe Bryant averaging 26.8 points. They won the championship against the New Jersey Nets, making Bryant, at age 23, the youngest player to win three championships.
January 7, 2003: Bryant Sets NBA Record for Three-Pointers in a Game
On January 7, 2003, Kobe Bryant set an NBA record for three-pointers in a game when he made 12 against the Seattle SuperSonics.
January 2003: Birth of first daughter Natalia
In January 2003, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant welcomed their first daughter, Natalia.
June 18, 2003: Charged with sexual assault
On June 18, 2003, Kobe Bryant was charged in Eagle, Colorado, in connection with a sexual assault complaint filed by a 19-year-old hotel employee. He admitted to an adulterous sexual encounter but denied the sexual assault allegation.
2003: Sexual Assault Allegation
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was charged with sexual assault, which led to charges being dropped and a settlement out of court.
2003: Withdrew from FIBA Americas Championship
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was originally selected for the FIBA Americas Championship but withdrew after undergoing arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries.
2003: Bryant Was the Leading All-Star Vote-Getter
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
2003: First Meeting Between O'Neal and Yao Ming
In 2003, the first ever head-to-head meeting between Shaquille O'Neal and Yao Ming resulted in the most-watched game with 4.41 million viewers until the game after Kobe's death.
2003: Contract Extended with Lakers
Kobe Bryant's six-year contract extension signed during the 1998-99 season kept him with the Lakers until the end of the 2003-04 season.
2003: Lakers' Tumultuous Season Detailed in Book
Phil Jackson's book "The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul" detailed the events of the Lakers' tumultuous 2003-04 season.
September 2004: Sexual assault case dropped
In September 2004, the sexual assault case against Kobe Bryant was dropped by prosecutors after the accuser decided not to testify at the trial. Bryant agreed to apologize to her for the incident and issued a public mea culpa.
2004: Most alienated superstar
Circa 2004, Kobe Bryant was the most alienated superstar the NBA had ever seen.
2004: Jackson's Book Criticizes Bryant
During the 2004-05 season, Kobe Bryant faced scrutiny after Phil Jackson's book, "The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul", criticized him. Jackson called Bryant "un-coachable."
2004: Lakers lost in the NBA Finals
In 2004, the Lakers lost the NBA Finals, which led to O'Neal being traded.
2004: Lakers Reach NBA Finals, O'Neal Traded
In 2004, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals but were defeated by the Detroit Pistons. After the series, coach Jackson's contract was not renewed, O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat, and Bryant re-signed with the Lakers.
2004: Memphis Grizzlies swept in playoffs
In 2004, the Memphis Grizzlies were the first 50-win team to be swept out of the first round of the playoffs since the San Antonio Spurs.
December 20, 2005: Bryant Scores 62 Points in Three Quarters
On December 20, 2005, Kobe Bryant scored 62 points in three quarters against the Dallas Mavericks, outscoring the entire Mavericks team 62-61 through three quarters.
2005: Bryant Sets Lakers Single-Season Franchise Records
By the end of the 2005-06 season, Kobe Bryant set Lakers single-season franchise records for most 40-point games (27) and most points scored (2,832). He won the league's scoring title for the first time by averaging 35.4 points per game.
2005: Bryant Led NBA in Scoring
In 2005, Kobe Bryant led the NBA in scoring.
2005: Vanessa suffered a miscarriage
In the spring of 2005, Vanessa Bryant suffered a miscarriage due to an ectopic pregnancy.
January 16, 2006: Bryant and O'Neal End Feud
On January 16, 2006, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal made headlines by engaging in handshakes and hugs before the Lakers game against the Miami Heat, signifying the end of their feud.
January 22, 2006: Bryant Scores Career-High 81 Points
On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored a career-high 81 points in a 122–104 victory over the Toronto Raptors, the second-highest point total in NBA history.
May 2006: Birth of second daughter Gianna
In May 2006, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant's second daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore (also referred to as "Gigi"), was born.
2006: Bryant Selected for All-Star Game, Wins MVP; Involved in On-Court Incidents
During the 2006-07 season, Kobe Bryant was selected to his ninth All-Star Game appearance, earning his second career All-Star Game MVP trophy on February 18. He was also involved in multiple on-court incidents, resulting in suspensions.
2006: Bryant Led NBA in Scoring and Scored 81 Points Against Toronto
In 2006, Kobe Bryant led the NBA in scoring. Also in 2006, Bryant had an 81-point performance against Toronto, the second-highest in NBA history.
2006: Named to U.S. preliminary roster
In 2006, Kobe Bryant, along with LeBron James, was one of the first two players to be publicly named to the 2006–2008 U.S. preliminary roster by Jerry Colangelo, but he was later sidelined after knee surgery and did not participate in the 2006 FIBA World Championship.
2006: Bryant Changes Jersey Number to 24
Later in the 2005-06 season, it was reported that Kobe Bryant would change his jersey number from 8 to 24 at the start of the 2006-07 season.
May 27, 2007: Bryant requests trade, then rescinds it
On May 27, 2007, Kobe Bryant initially stated he wanted to be traded if Jerry West did not return to the Lakers. He later confirmed his desire for West's return but denied requesting a trade. After expressing anger over a Lakers insider blaming him for Shaquille O'Neal's departure, Bryant publicly stated, "I want to be traded". After talking with coach Jackson, he reconsidered his decision and backed off his trade request.
December 23, 2007: Bryant reaches 20,000 career points
On December 23, 2007, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player at 29 years, 122 days old to reach 20,000 career points in a game against the New York Knicks.
2007: Most alienated superstar
Circa 2007, Kobe Bryant was the most alienated superstar the NBA had ever seen.
2007: Endorsement deals worth $16 million
In 2007, CNN estimated Kobe Bryant's endorsement deals to be worth $16 million a year.
2007: Filming of Kobe Doin' Work Documentary
In 2007, Kobe Bryant was chronicled by Spike Lee for the documentary film Kobe Doin' Work during the 2007–08 NBA season.
2007: Began national team career
In 2007, Kobe Bryant's United States national team career began. He became a member of the 2007 USA Men's Senior National Team and USA FIBA Americas Championship Team, achieving a 10–0 record, winning gold, and qualifying the United States men for the 2008 Olympics.
February 5, 2008: Bryant injures shooting hand
On February 5, 2008, Kobe Bryant sustained a significant injury to his shooting hand's small finger during a game, including a complete tear of the radial collateral ligament and an avulsion fracture. Despite the injury, he chose to play all 82 regular-season games, postponing surgery until after the Lakers season and the Olympics.
May 6, 2008: Bryant announced as league MVP
On May 6, 2008, Kobe Bryant was officially announced as the league MVP after leading the Lakers to a West-leading record.
May 8, 2008: Bryant is unanimous All-NBA selection
On May 8, 2008, Kobe Bryant was the only unanimous selection to the All-NBA team for the third straight season and sixth time in his career. He also headlined the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
June 23, 2008: Named to the USA Men's Senior National Team
On June 23, 2008, Kobe Bryant was named to the USA Men's Senior National Team for the 2008 Summer Olympics, marking his first time participating in the Olympics.
August 24, 2008: Won gold medal at the Olympics
On August 24, 2008, Kobe Bryant scored 20 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter, along with six assists, as Team USA defeated Spain 118–107 in the gold medal game at the Olympics, securing its first gold medal in a worldwide competition since the 2000 Olympics.
September 2008: Bryant decides against pinkie surgery
In early September 2008, Kobe Bryant decided not to have surgery to repair his right pinkie injury.
2008: Rematch against the Celtics
In 2008 there was a rematch against the 2008 Champion Boston Celtics in which the Lakers would go on to win the championship.
2008: ESPN Ranked Bryant Second-Greatest Shooting Guard
In 2008, ESPN ranked Kobe Bryant the second-greatest shooting guard of all time after Michael Jordan.
2008: Appeared in Guitar Hero World Tour commercial
In 2008, Kobe Bryant appeared in commercials for the video game Guitar Hero World Tour alongside Tony Hawk, Michael Phelps, and Alex Rodriguez.
2008: Donation to National Museum of African American History and Culture
In 2008, Kobe Bryant donated his uniform from the 2008 NBA Finals to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Bryant was also named the league MVP the same year.
2008: Qualified for the 2008 Olympics
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was a member of the USA FIBA Americas Championship Team and helped qualified the United States men for the 2008 Olympics.
2008: Kobe Bryant Named NBA MVP
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was named the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP).
2008: Sidelined after knee surgery
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was sidelined after knee surgery and did not participate in the 2006 FIBA World Championship.
2008: Bryant Won MVP and a Gold Medal
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was voted the league MVP and led his team to the 2008 NBA Finals. In the 2008 Summer Olympics, Bryant won a gold medal as a member of the U.S. men's basketball team.
2008: Won Gold Medal at Olympics
In 2008, Kobe Bryant won a gold medal as part of the U.S. Olympic team.
2008: Lakers reach NBA Finals
In 2008, the Lakers earned their second straight trip to the NBA Finals after defeating the Denver Nuggets in the Conference Finals.
2008: Promoted Nike's Hyperdunk shoes
In a 2008 video promoting Nike's Hyperdunk shoes, Kobe Bryant appeared to jump over a speeding Aston Martin. He later came out with the fourth edition of his signature line by Nike, the Zoom Kobe IV.
January 21, 2009: Bryant records triple-double
On January 21, 2009, Kobe Bryant recorded his first triple-double since January 21, 2009.
February 2, 2009: Bryant sets scoring record at Madison Square Garden
On February 2, 2009, Kobe Bryant scored 61 points against the Knicks, setting a record for the most points scored at Madison Square Garden.
February 9, 2009: Featured on ESPN The Magazine cover
On February 9, 2009, Kobe Bryant was featured on the cover of ESPN The Magazine for being a big fan of FC Barcelona.
December 4, 2009: Bryant makes game-winning shot against Heat
On December 4, 2009, Kobe Bryant made a buzzer-beating, one-legged three-pointer over Dwyane Wade, leading to the Lakers' narrow 108–107 victory over the Miami Heat.
2009: Revealed childhood baseball fandom
During the 2009 National League Championship Series, Kobe Bryant revealed that he grew up a fan of the New York Mets and wanted to be like Darryl Strawberry, also boasting that he still had a Ron Darling baseball card.
2009: Lil Wayne's "Kobe Bryant" Song Release
In 2009, American rapper Lil Wayne released a song called "Kobe Bryant", paying tribute to the basketball star.
2009: Bryant Led the Lakers to a Championship and Won the Finals MVP
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to a championship, winning the Finals MVP award.
2009: Won NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship and was named NBA Finals MVP.
2009: Release of Spike Lee's Kobe Doin' Work
In 2009, Spike Lee's documentary film Kobe Doin' Work was released, chronicling Kobe Bryant during the 2007–08 NBA season.
April 2, 2010: Bryant signs contract extension with Lakers
On April 2, 2010, Kobe Bryant signed a three-year contract extension worth $87 million with the Lakers.
November 4, 2010: Call of Duty: Black Ops Launch Event Donation
On November 4, 2010, Kobe Bryant, along with Zach Braff, appeared at the Call of Duty: Black Ops launch event and presented a $1 million check to the Call of Duty Endowment, supporting veterans transitioning to civilian careers.
December 13, 2010: Signed endorsement deal with Turkish Airlines
On December 13, 2010, Kobe Bryant signed a two-year endorsement deal with Turkey's national airline, Turkish Airlines. He appeared in a promotional film aired in over 80 countries.
2010: Sho Baraka's "Kobe Bryant On'em" Song Release
In 2010, American rapper Sho Baraka released a song called "Kobe Bryant On'em," which was featured on his album Lions and Liars as a tribute to Kobe Bryant.
2010: Appeared in Call of Duty: Black Ops commercial
In 2010, Kobe Bryant appeared in commercials for the video game Call of Duty: Black Ops alongside Jimmy Kimmel.
2010: Bryant reaches 25,000 career points
In 2010, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player at 31 years, 151 days old, to reach 25,000 career points, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain.
2010: Bryant Led the Lakers to Another Championship and Won the Finals MVP
In 2010, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship, winning the Finals MVP award.
2010: Won Another NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2010, Kobe Bryant led the team to another championship and was again named NBA Finals MVP.
2010: Launched Nike Zoom Kobe V shoe
In 2010, Nike launched another shoe, the Nike Zoom Kobe V, as part of Kobe Bryant's signature line.
January 30, 2011: Bryant becomes youngest player to score 27,000 points
On January 30, 2011, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player to score 27,000 points.
April 13, 2011: Bryant fined for gay slur
On April 13, 2011, the NBA fined Kobe Bryant $100,000 for directing a gay slur at referee Bennie Adams. Bryant later apologized, and appeared in a Lakers public service announcement denouncing his behavior.
December 16, 2011: Vanessa Bryant filed for divorce
On December 16, 2011, Vanessa Bryant filed for divorce from Kobe Bryant, citing irreconcilable differences, and the couple requested joint custody of their daughters.
2011: Collaboration with Jay Chou on "The Heaven and Earth Challenge"
In 2011, Kobe Bryant was featured in Taiwanese singer Jay Chou's single "The Heaven and Earth Challenge." The proceeds from the single and ringtones were donated to impoverished schools for basketball facilities and equipment, and the song was also used by Sprite in its 2011 marketing campaign in China.
2011: Bryant Was the Leading All-Star Vote-Getter
In 2011, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
January 10, 2012: 48 points against the Suns
On January 10, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 48 points against the Phoenix Suns, after which he referenced his preseason ranking.
September 2012: Shot commercial for Turkish Airlines with Lionel Messi
In September 2012, Kobe Bryant shot a commercial for Turkish Airlines with FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi, where they competed for a young boy's attention.
November 2, 2012: Passing Magic Johnson in Lakers Steals
On November 2, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 40 points and had two steals, surpassing Magic Johnson as the Lakers' career leader in steals with 1,724 steals. Despite Bryant's performance, the Lakers lost to the Clippers, marking their first 0-3 start to the season in 34 years.
2012: Suffered Torn Achilles Tendon
During the 2012-13 season, Kobe Bryant suffered a torn Achilles tendon.
2012: Started referring to himself as "vino"
During the 2012–13 season, Kobe Bryant began referring to himself as "vino" to describe how his play had been aging like a fine wine.
2012: Chief Keef's "Kobe" Song Release
In 2012, American rapper Chief Keef released "Kobe", a song paying tribute to Bryant. It was featured on his debut studio album, Finally Rich, as a part of the deluxe edition.
2012: Rejoined the national team for the Summer Olympics
In 2012, Kobe Bryant rejoined the national team for the Summer Olympics and won another gold medal, after which he decided to retire from the team. He concluded his national team career with a 26–0 record across three tournaments, winning gold each time.
2012: Honored as One of the Greatest McDonald's All-Americans
In 2012, Kobe Bryant was honored as one of the 35 Greatest McDonald's All-Americans for his high school play and later accomplishments.
2012: Bryant Won Another Gold Medal at the Summer Olympics
In 2012, Kobe Bryant won another gold medal at the Summer Olympics.
2012: Won Second Gold Medal at Olympics
In 2012, Kobe Bryant won his second gold medal as part of the U.S. Olympic team.
2012: Selected as player to take clutch shot
In a 2012 annual survey of NBA general managers, Kobe Bryant was selected for the 10th consecutive season as the player general managers would want to take a clutch shot with a game on the line.
January 11, 2013: Divorce called off
On January 11, 2013, Kobe Bryant and his wife, Vanessa, announced via social media that they had called off their divorce.
March 30, 2013: Surpassing Chamberlain as fourth-leading scorer
On March 30, 2013, Kobe Bryant surpassed Wilt Chamberlain to become the fourth-leading scorer in NBA history during a victory over the Sacramento Kings.
April 10, 2013: First player with 47 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and three steals
On April 10, 2013, Kobe Bryant became the first player in NBA history to record 47 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and three steals in a single game.
November 2013: Resuming Practice after Achilles Injury
In November 2013, Kobe Bryant resumed practicing with the Lakers after recovering from an Achilles injury he suffered during the previous 2012-13 season.
2013: Ranked fifth-highest paid sports star
In 2013, Forbes listed Kobe Bryant as the fifth-highest paid sports star in the world, behind Floyd Mayweather, Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James, and Lionel Messi.
2013: Legal disagreement over memorabilia
In 2013, Kobe Bryant had a legal disagreement with an auction house over memorabilia from his early years that his parents had put up for auction. A settlement was reached allowing the auction house the sale of less than 10% of the items, and Bryant's parents apologized for the misunderstanding.
2013: Launch of Granity Studios
In 2013, Kobe Bryant launched a production company called Granity Studios, which developed various media projects, ranging from films to television shows and novels.
2013: Bryant Was the Leading All-Star Vote-Getter
In 2013, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
2013: Postponement of Lakers Game After Boston Marathon Bombing
In 2013, the NBA postponed the Lakers' game against the Clippers due to the Boston Marathon bombing. This marked the first time an NBA game was postponed for any reason since this tragic event.
March 12, 2014: Ruled out for the remainder of the season
On March 12, 2014, the Lakers ruled Kobe Bryant out for the remainder of the season due to the need for further rehabilitation of his knee. At that time, the Lakers were tied for the worst record in the Western Conference at 22-42.
March 2014: Initial Investment in Bodyarmor SuperDrink Company
In March 2014, Kobe Bryant established Kobe Inc. and made the initial investment of a 10% stake in the Bodyarmor SuperDrink company for $6 million.
November 30, 2014: 20th Career Triple-Double
On November 30, 2014, Kobe Bryant recorded his 20th career triple-double with 31 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds in an overtime victory against the Toronto Raptors. At 36 years old, he became the oldest NBA player to achieve 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game.
January 21, 2015: Suffering Rotator Cuff Tear
On January 21, 2015, Kobe Bryant suffered a rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder while driving baseline for a dunk against the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite the injury, he continued to play in the game using his left hand to shoot, dribble, and pass.
May 2015: Sold house in Newport Coast
In May 2015, Kobe Bryant sold the house he bought in January 2002, located in Newport Coast, Newport Beach.
November 24, 2015: Worst-shooting game
On November 24, 2015, Kobe Bryant had one of the worst-shooting games of his career, scoring only four points in 25 minutes on 1-for-14 shooting as the Lakers lost to the Golden State Warriors 111-77.
November 29, 2015: Announcement of Retirement
On November 29, 2015, Kobe Bryant announced his decision to retire at the end of the 2015-16 NBA season through a poem titled "Dear Basketball" published in The Players' Tribune. He also released a letter to Lakers fans expressing his gratitude.
2015: Retired After 2015-16 Season
Kobe Bryant retired from the NBA after the 2015-16 season.
August 22, 2016: Launch of Bryant-Stibel Venture Capital Firm
On August 22, 2016, Kobe Bryant and his business partner Jeff Stibel launched Bryant-Stibel, a venture capital firm focused on various businesses including media, data, gaming, and technology, with $100 million in funding.
December 2016: Birth of third daughter
In early December 2016, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant welcomed their third daughter.
2016: ESPN Again Ranked Bryant Second-Greatest Shooting Guard
In 2016, ESPN again ranked Kobe Bryant the second-greatest shooting guard of all time after Michael Jordan.
2016: Bryant Was the Leading All-Star Vote-Getter
In 2016, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
December 18, 2017: Lakers Retired Both Numbers 8 and 24
On December 18, 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers retired both numbers that Kobe Bryant wore during his career, 8 and 24.
2017: Lakers Retired Both Numbers
In 2017, the Lakers retired both of Kobe Bryant's jersey numbers, 8 and 24.
August 2018: Increased Valuation of Bodyarmor Stake
In August 2018, the Coca-Cola Company purchased a minority stake in Bodyarmor SuperDrink. This caused the valuation of Kobe Bryant's stake to rise to approximately $200 million.
October 23, 2018: Publication of The Mamba Mentality: How I Play
On October 23, 2018, Kobe Bryant's book The Mamba Mentality: How I Play, featuring photographs and an afterword by Andrew D. Bernstein, an introduction by Phil Jackson, and a foreword by Pau Gasol, was published by MCD / Farrar, Straus and Giroux, looking back on his career with photos and reflections.
2018: Launch of Mamba Sports Academy
In 2018, Kobe Bryant and Sports Academy launched Mamba Sports Academy, a joint athletic-training business venture with locations in Thousand Oaks and Redondo Beach, California.
2018: Kobe Bryant Appears at the Academy Awards
In 2018, Kobe Bryant appeared at the Academy Awards and received an Oscar for his film, Dear Basketball.
2018: Launch of Detail Television Series
In 2018, Kobe Bryant began writing, producing, and hosting the television series Detail, which aired for multiple seasons on ESPN and ESPN+ and featured his insights into basketball.
2018: Won Academy Award for Dear Basketball
In 2018, Kobe Bryant won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film for "Dear Basketball (2017)".
January 2019: Announced expecting fourth daughter
In January 2019, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant announced they were expecting a fourth daughter.
June 2019: Birth of fourth daughter
In June 2019, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant's fourth daughter was born.
2019: Appearance on MTV's Ridiculousness
In 2019, Kobe Bryant appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness, marking another venture into television entertainment.
2019: Global ambassador of FIBA Basketball World Cup
In 2019, Kobe Bryant was one of the global ambassadors of the FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.
January 2020: Death in Helicopter Crash
In January 2020, Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna passed away in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California.
January 26, 2020: Kobe Bryant's Death
On January 26, 2020, Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash.
March 2020: Posthumous Release of The Wizenard Series: Season One
In March 2020, Kobe Bryant's fourth novel, The Wizenard Series: Season One, was released posthumously and topped the New York Times middle-grade hardcover list.
April 2020: Bryant Elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In April 2020, Kobe Bryant was elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, weeks after being named a finalist in his first year of eligibility.
May 2020: Mamba Sports Academy Renamed to Sports Academy
In May 2020, out of respect for Kobe Bryant, the Mamba Sports Academy was renamed to Sports Academy.
August 2020: Omission from VMAs
In August 2020, Kobe Bryant was not included in the montages at the 2020 VMAs, leading to fan upset.
2020: Lakers Wore 'Black Mamba' Jerseys in Playoffs
During the 2020 NBA playoffs, the Lakers' players wore 'Black Mamba' jerseys in honor of Kobe Bryant. The team wore the "Black Mamba" jerseys during their Game 2 victory over the Denver Nuggets in the Western Conference Finals, and Anthony Davis made a buzzer-beating three-pointer and yelled Bryant's name.
2020: Honorary Draft Picks in WNBA Draft
In 2020, Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli, and Payton Chester were made honorary draft picks in the WNBA draft.
2020: Lakers Win Championship and Snoop Dogg's Tattoo
In 2020, after the Lakers won their 17th NBA championship, Snoop Dogg paid tribute to Kobe Bryant with a full forearm tattoo.
2020: Tributes at 2020 Pro Bowl
In 2020, the Pro Bowl was played in Orlando, and before kickoff, NFC players conducted a prayer led by Russell Wilson after learning of Kobe Bryant's death. Various on-field and PA tributes were also made during the game.
February 9, 2021: NTSB Declares Cause of Helicopter Crash
On February 9, 2021, the NTSB declared that pilot Ara Zobayan probably became disoriented after flying into thick clouds. The board also stated that Zobayan ignored his training and violated federal regulations during the flight that led to the crash that caused Kobe Bryant's death.
October 2021: Bryant Honored on NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In October 2021, Kobe Bryant was honored as one of the league's greatest players of all time by being named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
2021: Posthumous Induction into Basketball Hall of Fame
In 2021, Kobe Bryant was posthumously inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, with Vanessa Bryant delivering the acceptance speech on his behalf.
2021: Posthumous Selection to NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Kobe Bryant was posthumously named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
January 26, 2022: Statue of Bryant and Gianna Placed at Crash Site
On January 26, 2022, the second anniversary of Kobe Bryant's death and the helicopter crash, a statue of Bryant and his daughter Gianna was placed at the site where the crash occurred.
2022: Civil Trial Award for Vanessa Bryant
In 2022, Vanessa Bryant was awarded $15 million from L.A. County in a civil trial regarding the unauthorized sharing of graphic photos from the helicopter crash. The settlement was followed by "additional funds to settle potential claims from her daughters".
2022: The Athletic Ranked Bryant 10th-Greatest Player
In 2022, to commemorate the NBA's 75th Anniversary, The Athletic ranked Kobe Bryant as the 10th-greatest player in NBA history.
February 28, 2023: Settlement Awarded to Vanessa Bryant
On February 28, 2023, Vanessa Bryant was awarded a $28.85 million settlement from Los Angeles County to conclude legal proceedings over graphic photos of the aftermath of the helicopter crash that were shared without permission of the family.
August 24, 2023: Announcement of Bryant's Statue Unveiling Date
On August 24, 2023, the Lakers announced that Kobe Bryant's statue outside of the Crypto.com Arena would be revealed on February 8, 2024.
February 8, 2024: Statue of Kobe Bryant to be revealed
To honor his two numbers with the Lakers, 8 and 24, and 2 for the number of his daughter Gianna. On February 8, 2024, Kobe Bryant's statue outside of the Crypto.com Arena was revealed.
2024: LeBron James broke field goal attempts record
In 2024, LeBron James broke Kobe Bryant's record for most missed field goal attempts in an NBA career.
February 2025: Trump Announces Statue in National Garden of American Heroes
In February 2025, Donald Trump announced that Kobe Bryant would get a statue in the proposed National Garden of American Heroes.
2025: Hall of Fame Induction as Olympic Team Member
In 2025, Kobe Bryant will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.
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