History of Kobe Bryant in Timeline
Kobe Bryant, a legendary shooting guard, dedicated his 20-year NBA career to the Los Angeles Lakers. Widely considered one of basketball's all-time greats, he secured five NBA championships, earned 18 All-Star selections, and received the 2008 NBA MVP award. Bryant also claimed two NBA Finals MVP titles and two scoring championships, holding the fourth position in all-time regular season and postseason scoring. Posthumously honored on the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021, he was a two-time inductee into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
December 1962: Baylor's 50-plus point streak
In December 1962, Elgin Baylor scored 50+ points in three consecutive contests before Kobe Bryant matched the feat.
1962: Chamberlain's 100-point Game
On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored a career-high 81 points, which was surpassed only by Chamberlain's 100-point game in 1962.
1964: Scoring 45+ points in four consecutive games
In January 2006, Kobe became the first player since 1964 to score 45 points or more in four consecutive games.
1969: West's NBA Finals performance
In the 1969 NBA Finals, Jerry West averaged at least 32.4 points and 7.4 assists in the series, a feat that Kobe Bryant later matched.
August 23, 1978: Kobe Bryant's Birth
On August 23, 1978, Kobe Bean Bryant was born. He would become a celebrated American professional basketball player.
1983: Four All-Stars Selected on the Same Team
In Kobe Bryant's second season, along with teammates O'Neal, Van Exel, and Jones, the Lakers had four players selected to play in the same All-Star Game for the first time since 1983.
1987: Father Plays for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
From 1987 to 1989, Kobe Bryant's father, Joe Bryant, played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia. Kobe worked at the games as a ball and mop boy and practiced shooting at halftime.
1987: Jordan's last 50-plus point streak
In 1987, Michael Jordan was the last player before Kobe Bryant to score 50-plus points in three straight games.
1988: Lakers' Previous Championship
In 2000, The Los Angeles Lakers won their first championship since 1988.
1989: Father Plays for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
From 1987 to 1989, Kobe Bryant's father, Joe Bryant, played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia. Kobe worked at the games as a ball and mop boy and practiced shooting at halftime.
1990: Detroit Pistons Championship Win
In 2004, The Detroit Pistons won their first championship since 1990.
1995: Adidas ABCD Camp MVP
In 1995, Kobe Bryant earned the senior MVP award at Adidas ABCD Camp while playing alongside future NBA teammate Lamar Odom, further showcasing his talent.
1995: Considering Going Pro
In 1995, after Kevin Garnett's successful entry into the NBA, Kobe Bryant began contemplating going directly to the pros from high school.
May 1996: Brandy's date to senior prom
In May 1996, Kobe Bryant was Brandy's date to her Hollywood High School senior prom.
July 9, 1996: Trade to the Los Angeles Lakers Finalized
On July 9, 1996, the trade sending Kobe Bryant from the Charlotte Hornets to the Los Angeles Lakers was finalized. Bryant signed a three-year rookie contract totaling $3.5 million.
1996: Signed with Adidas
Before starting the 1996–97 season, Kobe Bryant signed a six-year contract with Adidas worth approximately $48 million, leading to the release of his first signature shoe, the Equipment KB 8.
1996: Pre-Draft Scrimmage
Before the 1996 NBA draft, Kobe Bryant worked out in Los Angeles, where he scrimmaged against former Lakers players, impressing Jerry West with his performance.
1996: Summer Pro League Debut
In 1996, Kobe Bryant debuted in the Summer Pro League, scoring 25 points and showcasing his skills, followed by his rookie season in the NBA.
1996: NBA Draft Entry
In 1996, Kobe Bryant declared for the NBA draft out of high school and was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th pick before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.
1996: Decision to enter NBA directly
In 1996, Kobe Bryant, at 17 years old, decided to enter the NBA directly from high school, becoming only the sixth player in NBA history to do so.
1996: Johnson's Assists in Playoffs
In Game 2 of the 2010 Playoffs, Kobe Bryant finished the game with 13 assists. It was the most assists by a Laker in the playoffs since Magic Johnson had 13 in 1996.
1997: Appearance on Hang Time
In 1997, Kobe Bryant appeared on an episode of Hang Time.
1997: All-Star Weekend and Slam Dunk Title
In 1997, Kobe Bryant participated in the Rookie Challenge and won the Slam Dunk Contest at All-Star weekend, and he earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
1997: Performance at Sway & King Tech Concert
In 1997, Kobe Bryant performed at a concert by Sway & King Tech, and he also recorded a verse for a remix of Brian McKnight's "Hold Me."
1997: Bryant wins NBA Slam Dunk Contest
In 1997, Kobe Bryant won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest and was its youngest winner.
1997: Slam Dunk Contest Win
In 1997, during his rookie season, Kobe Bryant solidified his reputation as a high-flyer by winning the Slam Dunk Contest.
1998: Guest appearance on All That
In 1998, Kobe Bryant made a guest appearance on the Nickelodeon sketch comedy series All That.
1998: Featured on Brian McKnight and Tone's single
In 1998, Kobe Bryant made his only credited appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 as a featured rapper on Brian McKnight and Tone's single "Hold Me."
1998: Emergence as a Premier Guard
The 1998-99 season marked Kobe Bryant's emergence as a premier guard in the league. With starting guards Van Exel and Jones traded, Bryant started every game for the lockout-shortened 50-game season.
January 1999: "Hold Me" peaked at number 35
In January 1999, Kobe Bryant's only credited appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 was as a featured rapper on Brian McKnight and Tone's single "Hold Me," which peaked at number 35.
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: Start of Scoring Dominance
From the 1999-00 season, Kobe Bryant was the leading scorer of the 2000s decade, accumulating 21,065 points in regular season play through the 2008-09 season.
1999: Appearance on Destiny's Child remix
In 1999, Kobe Bryant appeared on a remix of "Say My Name" by Destiny's Child on the Maxi single version of the song.
1999: Hand Injury Sidelining
In 1999, Kobe Bryant was sidelined for six weeks due to a hand injury sustained during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards.
1999: Phil Jackson Hired as Lakers Coach
In 1999, Phil Jackson became the coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, marking a turning point in Kobe Bryant's career.
January 2000: Debut of "K.O.B.E."
In January 2000, the first single from Kobe Bryant's unreleased album "Visions," titled "K.O.B.E", featuring Tyra Banks, debuted and was performed at NBA All-Star Weekend, receiving a poor reception.
May 2000: Engaged to Vanessa Laine
In May 2000, Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Laine became engaged six months after they started dating.
2000: Championship Victory
In 2000, Bryant and O'Neal led the Lakers to win 67 games. Bryant was named to the All-NBA Second Team and All-NBA Defensive Team. The Lakers won their first championship since 1988, defeating the Indiana Pacers in Game 6 of the 2000 NBA Finals, with Bryant scoring 22 points in the second half of Game 4 to lead the team to victory as O'Neal fouled out.
2000: Declined to play in Olympics
In 2000, Kobe Bryant declined to participate in the Olympics due to his upcoming wedding during the off-season.
2000: 2000 Western Conference Finals
In 2000, The Lakers played in a seven game series against the Sacramento Kings in the Western Conference Finals.
2000: Bryant's Performance and Team Success
In the 2000-01 season, Kobe Bryant's performance was similar to the previous year, averaging 6 more points per game. He led the team in assists, but the Lakers only won 56 games.
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.
2001: NBA Championship
In 2001, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal secured their second consecutive NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.
2001: Season Performance
In the 2001-02 season, Bryant played 80 games for the first time in his career.
January 14, 2002: Career-High Scoring Game
On January 14, 2002, Kobe Bryant scored a then career-high 56 points, along with five rebounds and four assists, in a 120–81 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
January 2002: Purchased 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: Suspension for Punching Reggie Miller
On March 1, 2002, Kobe Bryant was suspended for one game after he punched Reggie Miller of the Indiana Pacers.
2002: Third NBA Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal won their third consecutive NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers.
2002: Third Consecutive NBA Finals Appearance
In 2002, the Lakers beat their division rivals and made their third consecutive NBA Finals appearance against the New Jersey Nets. Bryant averaged 26.8 points. At age 23, he became the youngest player to win three championships.
2002: First Game of the 2002-03 Season
In 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 visiting Spurs.
January 7, 2003: 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 and Vanessa Bryant welcomed their first daughter, Natalia.
June 18, 2003: Charged with Sexual Assault
On June 18, 2003, Kobe Bryant was formally charged in connection with a sexual assault complaint filed by a 19-year-old hotel employee in Eagle, Colorado.
2003: Contract Extension
In 1998 Kobe Bryant signed a six-year contract extension worth $70 million. This kept Bryant with the Lakers until the end of the 2003-04 season.
2003: Sexual Assault Allegation
In 2003, Kobe Bryant faced charges of sexual assault. The charges were later dropped, and a lawsuit was settled out of court. Bryant issued an apology and admitted to a sexual encounter he maintained was consensual.
2003: Bryant receives leading vote-getter honor for All-Star game
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
2003: Shaquille O'Neal and Yao Ming face off
In 2003, the first ever head-to-head meeting between Shaquille O'Neal and Yao Ming was the only NBA game with more viewers than the Lakers' first game after Kobe's death.
2003: Book Detailing Tumultuous Season
In 2004, Phil Jackson released his book, The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul, which detailed the events of the Lakers' tumultuous 2003-04 season and criticized Bryant.
2003: Fewest shots per game since 2003-04 season
Kobe Bryant finished the 2010-11 season averaging less than 20 shots a game, his fewest since the 2003–04 season.
September 2004: 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, leading to Bryant issuing a public apology.
2004: Most alienated superstar
Circa 2004, Kobe Bryant was considered the most alienated superstar in the NBA, according to sportswriter Mark Heisler of Forbes.
2004: Season Criticism
During the 2004-05 season, Kobe Bryant was scrutinized and criticized. Phil Jackson released his book, The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul, which detailed the events of the Lakers' tumultuous 2003-04 season and criticized Bryant. Bryant's overall status in the NBA declined, and he didn't make the NBA All-Defensive Team and was demoted to the All-NBA Third Team.
2004: Grizzlies swept by Spurs
In 2004, before the Lakers' playoff run, the Memphis Grizzlies became the first 50-win team to be swept out of the first round of the playoffs since the San Antonio Spurs eliminated them in four games.
2004: Loss in the NBA Finals
In 2004, the Los Angeles Lakers lost the NBA Finals, leading to Shaquille O'Neal being traded and Kobe Bryant becoming the franchise's cornerstone.
2004: Loss to the Detroit Pistons in the 2004 NBA Finals
In 2004, with a starting lineup including O'Neal, Malone, and Payton, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals but lost in five games to the Detroit Pistons. Following this, Jackson's contract was not renewed, O'Neal was traded, and Bryant re-signed with the Lakers.
December 20, 2005: Scoring 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.
2005: Lakers Single-Season Franchise Records
By the end of the 2005-06 season, Bryant set Lakers single-season franchise records for most 40-point games (27) and most points scored (2,832).
2005: NBA Scoring Leader
In the 2005-06 NBA season, Kobe Bryant led the league in scoring, establishing himself as the primary offensive force for the Lakers.
2005: Bryant leads the NBA in scoring.
In the 2005-06 season, Kobe Bryant led the NBA in scoring.
2005: Vanessa Suffered Miscarriage
In the spring of 2005, Vanessa Bryant suffered a miscarriage due to an ectopic pregnancy.
January 16, 2006: Reconciliation with Shaquille O'Neal
On January 16, 2006, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal engaged in handshakes and hugs before a game, signaling a change in their relationship.
January 22, 2006: 81-Point Game
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.
January 22, 2006: Career-High 81 Points
On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored a career-high 81 points in a single NBA game, the second-most in NBA history behind Wilt Chamberlain's 100-point game.
May 2006: Birth of Second Daughter, Gianna
In May 2006, Kobe and Vanessa Bryant's second daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore (Gigi), was born.
2006: All-Star Game MVP
During the 2006-07 season, on February 18, Kobe Bryant logged 31 points, six assists, and six steals, earning his second career All-Star Game MVP trophy.
2006: Bryant's 81-point game against Toronto
In 2006, Kobe Bryant had an 81-point performance against Toronto, which was the second-highest in NBA history.
2006: Jersey Number Change
Later in the 2006 season, it was reported that Kobe Bryant would change his jersey number from 8 to 24 at the start of the 2006-07 season.
2006: Bryant's jersey sales increase
Throughout the 2006-07 season, Kobe Bryant's jersey became the top selling NBA jersey in the United States and China, attributed to his new number and performance.
May 27, 2007: Trade request and reconsideration
On May 27, 2007, Kobe Bryant initially expressed a desire to be traded if Jerry West did not return to the team. After denying these statements, he later stated "I want to be traded" on Stephen A. Smith's radio program. Following a conversation with head coach Jackson, Bryant reconsidered and backed off his trade request.
December 23, 2007: Youngest to reach 20,000 points
On December 23, 2007, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player (29 years, 122 days) to reach 20,000 career points in a game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, scoring 39 points, with 11 rebounds and eight assists. This record has since been broken by LeBron James.
2007: NBA superstar
Circa 2007, Kobe Bryant was considered the most alienated superstar in the NBA, according to sportswriter Mark Heisler of Forbes.
2007: Endorsement Deals
In 2007, CNN estimated Kobe Bryant's endorsement deals to be worth $16 million a year.
2007: Joined USA Men's Senior National Team
In 2007, Kobe Bryant's 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 and securing a gold medal, which qualified the United States men for the 2008 Olympics.
2007: Lakers Season Finish
In 2007-08, the Lakers finished the regular season with a 57–25 record, finishing first in the Western Conference and setting up themselves for a first-round contest against the Denver Nuggets.
2007: Lakers eliminated from playoffs
In the 2007 NBA playoffs, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round by the Phoenix Suns, losing the series 4–1.
February 5, 2008: Finger injury
On February 5, 2008, Kobe Bryant suffered a significant injury to his shooting hand's small finger, including a complete tear of the radial collateral ligament and an avulsion fracture. Despite the severity, Bryant chose to play all 82 games of the regular season instead of undergoing surgery.
May 6, 2008: League MVP Award
On May 6, 2008, Kobe Bryant was officially announced as the league MVP, leading his team to a West-leading 57–25 record. He expressed pride in representing the organization and the city.
May 8, 2008: All-NBA and All-Defensive First Team selections
On May 8, 2008, Kobe Bryant was unanimously selected to the All-NBA First Team for the third straight season and sixth time in his career. He also headlined the NBA All-Defensive First Team with Kevin Garnett, earning his eighth selection.
June 23, 2008: Named to USA Men's Senior National Team for 2008 Summer Olympics
On June 23, 2008, Kobe Bryant was named to the USA Men's Senior National Team for the 2008 Summer Olympics, marking his first Olympic appearance.
August 24, 2008: Team USA Defeats Spain for Gold Medal
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 for its first gold medal in a worldwide competition since the 2000 Olympics.
September 2008: Decision to forego pinkie surgery
In early September 2008, Kobe Bryant chose not to undergo surgery to repair his right pinkie injury.
2008: Second Straight NBA Finals Trip
By finishing off the Denver Nuggets in the 2008-09 Conference Finals in six games, the Lakers earned their second straight trip to the NBA Finals.
2008: ESPN ranks Bryant as second-greatest shooting guard
In 2008, ESPN ranked Kobe Bryant the second-greatest shooting guard of all time after Michael Jordan.
2008: Nike Hyperdunk shoes promotion
In 2008, Kobe Bryant appeared in a video promoting Nike's Hyperdunk shoes, featuring a stunt of jumping over a speeding Aston Martin, and later released the Zoom Kobe IV.
2008: Guitar Hero World Tour Commercial
In 2008, Kobe Bryant appeared in commercials for the video game Guitar Hero World Tour with 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, the year he was named league MVP.
2008: Qualified for Olympics
In 2008, Kobe Bryant participated in the Olympics, contributing to the USA Men's Senior National Team that had qualified in 2007.
2008: NBA Most Valuable Player
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was named the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP). This was a significant milestone in his career, recognizing his exceptional performance during the season.
2008: Bryant wins league MVP and Olympic gold medal
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was voted the league MVP and led his team to the 2008 NBA Finals. He also won a gold medal as a member of the U.S. men's basketball team at the 2008 Summer Olympics.
2008: Olympic Gold Medal
In 2008, Kobe Bryant won an Olympic gold medal as part of the U.S. Olympic team.
2008: Rematch against the Celtics in the NBA Finals
In 2010, in a rematch against the 2008 Champion Boston Celtics, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers back from a 13-point third-quarter deficit in Game 7 to win the championship; he scored 10 of his game-high 23 points in the fourth quarter and finished the game with 15 rebounds, tying an NBA Finals record.
January 21, 2009: First triple-double since 2009
During the 2010-11 season, in his ninth game against the Denver Nuggets, Kobe Bryant recorded his first triple-double since January 21, 2009.
February 2, 2009: Record at Madison Square Garden
On February 2, 2009, Kobe Bryant scored 61 points in a game 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 fan of FC Barcelona, not for basketball.
December 4, 2009: Game-winning shot against Heat
On December 4, 2009, Kobe Bryant made a buzzer-beating, one-legged three-pointer over Dwyane Wade, leading the Lakers to a 108–107 victory over the Miami Heat. Bryant considered the shot "one of the luckiest he has made."
2009: Revealed Mets Fanhood
During the 2009 National League Championship Series, Kobe Bryant revealed that he grew up a fan of the New York Mets.
2009: Lil Wayne releases "Kobe Bryant"
In 2009, American rapper Lil Wayne released a song called "Kobe Bryant".
2009: Bryant leads Lakers to championship, wins Finals MVP
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to a championship, winning the Finals MVP award.
2009: NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to an NBA championship and was named the NBA Finals MVP, marking a significant achievement in his career.
2009: Release of Kobe Doin' Work documentary
In 2009, Spike Lee's documentary film, Kobe Doin' Work, which chronicled Kobe Bryant during the 2007–08 NBA season, was released.
April 2, 2010: Contract extension with Lakers
On April 2, 2010, Kobe Bryant signed a three-year contract extension with the Lakers worth $87 million.
November 4, 2010: Call of Duty: Black Ops launch event
On November 4, 2010, Kobe Bryant appeared alongside Zach Braff at the Call of Duty: Black Ops launch event at the Santa Monica Airport, where they presented a $1 million check to the Call of Duty Endowment.
December 13, 2010: Signed Endorsement Deal with Turkish Airlines
On December 13, 2010, Kobe Bryant signed a two-year endorsement deal with Turkish Airlines and appeared in a promotional film aired in over 80 countries.
2010: Youngest to reach 25,000 points
During the 2009-10 season, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player (31 years, 151 days) to reach 25,000 points in his career, surpassing Wilt Chamberlain.
2010: Sho Baraka releases "Kobe Bryant On'em"
In 2010, American rapper Sho Baraka released a song called "Kobe Bryant On'em", which was featured on his album Lions and Liars.
2010: 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 leads Lakers to another championship, wins Finals MVP again
In 2010, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship, winning the Finals MVP award for the second consecutive year.
2010: NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2010, Kobe Bryant secured another NBA championship and was again named the NBA Finals MVP, further solidifying his legacy with the Lakers.
2010: Forbes' List of World's Highest-Paid Athletes
In 2010, Kobe Bryant was ranked third in Forbes' list of the world's highest-paid athletes, with $48 million.
2010: Start of 2010-11 Season
Kobe Bryant started the 2010-11 season by winning their first eight games.
January 30, 2011: Youngest to score 27,000 points
On January 30, 2011, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player to score 27,000 points in a game against the Celtics.
April 13, 2011: Fine for using a gay slur
On April 13, 2011, the NBA fined Kobe Bryant $100,000 for directing a gay slur at referee Bennie Adams in frustration during the previous day's game. Bryant later apologized for his language, and the Lakers released a 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, citing irreconcilable differences, and the couple requested joint custody of their daughters.
2011: Featured in "The Heaven and Earth Challenge"
In 2011, Kobe Bryant was featured in Taiwanese singer Jay Chou's single "The Heaven and Earth Challenge" (天地一鬥), with proceeds donated to impoverished schools for basketball facilities.
2011: Bryant receives leading vote-getter honor for All-Star game
In 2011, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
January 10, 2012: Bryant Scores 48 Points Against Suns
On January 10, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 48 points against the Phoenix Suns during a game.
September 2012: Commercial with Lionel Messi for Turkish Airlines
In September 2012, Kobe Bryant shot a commercial for Turkish Airlines with FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi, competing for the attention of a young boy.
November 2, 2012: Bryant Passes Magic Johnson in Lakers Steals
On November 2, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 40 points with two steals, passing Magic Johnson as the Lakers' career leader in steals. Despite his performance, the Lakers lost to the Clippers, marking their first 0-3 start in 34 years.
2012: Achilles Tendon Injury
During the 2012-13 season, Kobe Bryant suffered a torn Achilles tendon, impacting the later years of his playing career.
2012: Began 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 releases "Kobe"
In 2012, American rapper Chief Keef released "Kobe", a song paying tribute to Bryant and featured on his album, Finally Rich.
2012: Won Gold Medal at Summer Olympics and Retired from Team
In 2012, Kobe Bryant rejoined the national team for the Summer Olympics. After winning another gold medal, he decided to retire from the team.
2012: Honored as McDonald's All-American
In 2012, Kobe Bryant was honored as one of the 35 Greatest McDonald's All-Americans for his exceptional high school play and subsequent accomplishments.
2012: Bryant wins second Olympic gold medal
In 2012, Kobe Bryant won another gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics as a member of the U.S. men's basketball team.
January 11, 2013: Bryants Called Off Divorce
On January 11, 2013, Kobe Bryant and his wife Vanessa announced via social media that they had called off their divorce.
March 30, 2013: Bryant Becomes Fourth-Leading Scorer in League History
On March 30, 2013, Kobe Bryant surpassed Wilt Chamberlain to become the fourth-leading scorer in league history, during a victory over Sacramento.
April 10, 2013: Bryant Achieves Unique Statistical Feat
On April 10, 2013, Kobe Bryant became the first player in NBA history to record at least 47 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and three steals in a single game.
November 2013: Bryant Resumes Practicing and Signs Contract Extension
In November 2013, Kobe Bryant resumed practicing after recovering from injury and signed a two-year contract extension with the Lakers for an estimated $48.5 million.
2013: Fifth-Highest Paid Sports Star
In 2013, Forbes listed Kobe Bryant as the fifth-highest paid sports star in the world.
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.
2013: Launch of Granity Studios
In 2013, Kobe Bryant launched a production company called Granity Studios, which developed different media, ranging from films to television shows and novels.
2013: Bryant receives leading vote-getter honor for All-Star game
In 2013, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
2013: Bryant Plays in First All-Star Game Since 2013
Kobe Bryant played in his first All-Star game since 2013, having 10 points, six rebounds, and seven assists.
March 12, 2014: Bryant Ruled Out for Remainder of Season
On March 12, 2014, the Lakers ruled Kobe Bryant out for the remainder of the season due to his need for more rehabilitation and the limited time remaining in the season.
March 2014: Initial investment in Bodyarmor SuperDrink company
In March 2014, Kobe Bryant's Kobe Inc. made its initial investment by acquiring a 10% stake in the Bodyarmor SuperDrink company for $6 million.
November 30, 2014: Bryant Records 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 age 36, he became the oldest NBA player to reach 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game.
January 21, 2015: Bryant Tears Rotator Cuff, undergoes season-ending surgery
On January 21, 2015, Kobe Bryant suffered a rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder during a game against the New Orleans Pelicans and underwent season-ending surgery for the injury. He finished the season averaging 22.3 points.
May 2015: Sold House in Newport Coast
In May 2015, Kobe Bryant sold the house he had purchased in Newport Coast in January 2002.
November 24, 2015: Lakers Fall to 2-12 After Loss to Warriors
On November 24, 2015, the Lakers lost 111-77 to the Warriors, bringing their record to 2-12. Kobe Bryant scored just four points in 25 minutes on 1-for-14 shooting in the game.
November 29, 2015: Bryant Announces Retirement
On November 29, 2015, Kobe Bryant announced his retirement at the end of the season via The Players' Tribune, in a poem titled "Dear Basketball."
2015: Retirement Announcement
In the 2015-16 season, Kobe Bryant announced his retirement, culminating in a final game where he scored 60 points.
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 with $100 million in funding.
December 2016: Birth of Third Daughter
In early December 2016, Vanessa Bryant gave birth to their third daughter.
2016: ESPN reaffirms Bryant's status as second-greatest shooting guard
In 2016, ESPN reaffirmed their ranking of Kobe Bryant as the second-greatest shooting guard of all time after Michael Jordan.
2016: Bryant receives leading vote-getter honor for All-Star game
In 2016, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star game.
2016: Bryant Scores Season-High 38 Points
On February 3, 2016, Kobe Bryant made seven three-pointers and scored a season-high 38 points in a 119-115 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. He became just the fourth NBA player over 37 years old to log at least 35 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a game.
December 18, 2017: Lakers retire Kobe Bryant's numbers
On December 18, 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers retired both numbers, 8 and 24, that Kobe Bryant wore during his career.
2017: Release of Dear Basketball
In 2017, Kobe Bryant released "Dear Basketball", which he later won an academy award for in 2018.
2017: Lakers Retire Both Numbers
In 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers retired both of Kobe Bryant's jersey numbers, 8 and 24, a unique honor in NBA history.
August 2018: Coca-Cola purchased stake in BodyArmor
In August 2018, The Coca-Cola Company purchased a minority stake in Bodyarmor SuperDrink company, increasing the valuation of Bryant's stake 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 was published, featuring photos and reflections on his career.
2018: Began hosting Detail on ESPN
Beginning in 2018, Kobe Bryant wrote, produced and hosted the television series Detail, which aired for multiple seasons on ESPN and ESPN+.
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 California.
2018: Kobe Bryant appears at the Academy Awards
In 2018, Kobe Bryant appeared at the start of the In Memoriam segment of the 92nd Academy Awards following his Oscar win for Dear Basketball.
2018: Academy Award win for Dear Basketball
In 2018, Kobe Bryant became the first African-American to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film for his film Dear Basketball.
January 2019: Announcement of Fourth Daughter
In January 2019, Kobe and Vanessa Bryant announced they were expecting a fourth daughter.
June 2019: Birth of Fourth Daughter
In June 2019, Kobe and Vanessa Bryant welcomed their fourth daughter.
2019: Appearance on MTV's Ridiculousness
In 2019, Kobe Bryant appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness.
2019: Global Ambassador of 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China
In 2019, Kobe Bryant was one of the global ambassadors of the FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.
January 2020: Helicopter Crash in Calabasas
In January 2020, Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, along with seven others, tragically died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, leading to global tributes and memorials.
January 26, 2020: Kobe Bryant's Death
On January 26, 2020, Kobe Bryant tragically passed away. He was an American professional basketball player. His death marked a profound loss in the basketball community and beyond.
March 2020: Posthumous release of The Wizenard Series: Season One
In March 2020, The Wizenard Series: Season One, a young adult novel co-written/produced by Kobe Bryant, 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, a couple of months after being named a finalist in his first year of eligibility.
May 2020: Mamba Sports Academy renamed
In May 2020, the Mamba Sports Academy was renamed to Sports Academy out of respect for Kobe Bryant.
August 2020: Omission from 2020 VMAs and Emmys
In August 2020, Kobe Bryant was not included in the montages at the 2020 VMAs and Emmys, which upset many fans.
2020: Lakers wear 'Black Mamba' jerseys in honor of Bryant
During the 2020 NBA playoffs, the Lakers' players wore 'Black Mamba' jerseys in honor of Kobe Bryant. The jerseys, designed by Bryant, feature a snakeskin pattern with yellow accents and 16 stars.
2020: Lakers win NBA championship
In 2020, after the Lakers beat the Miami Heat in Game 6 of the NBA Finals, Snoop Dogg paid homage to Bryant with a full forearm tattoo.
2020: Tributes at 2020 Pro Bowl
In 2020, before kickoff at the Pro Bowl, NFC players conducted a prayer led by Russell Wilson, while various on-field and PA tributes were made during the game in memory of Kobe Bryant.
2020: Honorary WNBA draft picks
In the 2020 WNBA draft, Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli, and Payton Chester were made honorary draft picks to honor their memory after their tragic death.
February 9, 2021: NTSB declares probable cause of crash
On February 9, 2021, over a year after the tragic crash, the NTSB declared that pilot Ara Zobayan probably became disoriented after flying into thick clouds, ignoring his training and violating federal regulations.
October 2021: Bryant named to 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 the NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Kobe Bryant was posthumously named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, honoring him as one of the greatest players in NBA history.
January 26, 2022: Statue of Bryant and Gianna placed at crash site
On January 26, 2022, which coincided with the second anniversary of Kobe Bryant's death, a statue of Bryant and his daughter Gianna was placed at the crash site in Calabasas.
2022: The Athletic ranks Bryant as 10th-greatest NBA player
In 2022, The Athletic ranked Kobe Bryant as the 10th-greatest player in NBA history and the second-highest shooting guard on the list, behind only Michael Jordan.
February 28, 2023: Settlement in photos lawsuit
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 helicopter crash that were shared without the permission of the family.
2023: Lakers announce unveiling date of Kobe Bryant statue
In 2023, the Lakers announced that Kobe Bryant's statue outside of Crypto.com Arena would be unveiled on February 8, 2024.
February 8, 2024: Unveiling date of Kobe Bryant statue outside Crypto.com Arena
In 2023, the Lakers announced Kobe Bryant's statue outside of Crypto.com Arena would be unveiled on February 8, 2024, to honor his two numbers with the Lakers, 8 and 24, and 2 for the number of his daughter Gianna.
August 2, 2024: Statue of Kobe and Gianna Bryant unveiled outside of Crypto.com Arena
On August 2, 2024, the Lakers unveiled a statue of Kobe and Gianna Bryant outside of Crypto.com Arena.
2024: LeBron James Broke Bryant's Record
In 2024, LeBron James broke Kobe Bryant's record for missing the most field goal attempts in NBA history.
February 2025: Bryant to get a statue in the proposed 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: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction
In 2025, Kobe Bryant will be inducted to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team.
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