History of Kobe Bryant in Timeline
Kobe Bryant, a celebrated American professional basketball player, dedicated his entire 20-year career to the Los Angeles Lakers. A shooting guard renowned as one of basketball's greatest, he secured five NBA championships. Bryant's accolades include 18 All-Star selections, a 2008 NBA MVP award, and two NBA Finals MVP titles. He earned spots on 15 All-NBA Teams and 12 All-Defensive Teams, and he was a two-time scoring champion. Bryant holds the fourth position in all-time regular season and postseason scoring. In 2020, he was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.
December 1962: Baylor's Scoring Streak
In December 1962, Baylor scored 50+ points in three consecutive contests, mirroring a feat later achieved by Kobe Bryant.
1962: Wilt Chamberlain's 100-Point Game
In 1962, Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a game, the highest point total in NBA history. This is mentioned in the context of Kobe Bryant's 81-point game in 2006.
1964: Scoring Streak
In 1964, a player scored 45 points or more in four consecutive games, a feat Kobe Bryant matched in 2006.
1969: West's Finals Performance
In the 1969 NBA Finals, Jerry West achieved an average of at least 32.4 points and 7.4 assists, a feat Kobe Bryant replicated later.
August 23, 1978: Kobe Bryant's Birth
On August 23, 1978, Kobe Bean Bryant was born. He would later become an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers.
1983: First time since 1983 that four players on the same team were selected to play in the same All-Star Game
It was the first time since 1983 that four players on the same team were selected to play in the same All-Star Game
1987: Jordan's 50-plus Point Games
In 1987, Jordan was the last player to score three straight 50-plus point games, a feat Kobe Bryant would later match.
1987: Father Played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
In 1987, Kobe Bryant's father played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia, and Kobe worked at the games as a ball and mop boy and practiced shooting at halftime.
1988: Lakers Championship
In 1988, The Lakers won their championship. This is mentioned in the context of the 2000 Lakers winning their first championship since 1988.
1989: Father Played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia
In 1989, Kobe Bryant's father played for Olimpia Basket Pistoia, and Kobe worked at the games as a ball and mop boy and practiced shooting at halftime.
1990: Detroit Pistons Win Championship
In 1990, the Detroit Pistons won their first championship. This is mentioned in the context of the 2004 NBA Finals where the Pistons won their first championship since 1990.
1995: College Recruiters Attention
In 1995, During his junior year in High School, Kobe Bryant attracted attention from college recruiters.
1995: Adidas ABCD Camp MVP
In 1995, Kobe Bryant earned the senior MVP award at Adidas ABCD Camp.
May 1996: Brandy's Prom Date
In May 1996, Kobe Bryant attended Brandy's Hollywood High School senior prom as her date.
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 rather than be traded.
1996: Workout in Los Angeles
Before the 1996 NBA draft, Kobe Bryant worked out in Los Angeles, scrimmaging against former Lakers players.
1996: Signed with Adidas and had multiple endorsements
Before the 1996–97 season, Bryant signed a six-year contract with Adidas and had endorsements with The Coca-Cola Company for Sprite, McDonald's, Spalding, Upper Deck, Nutella, Russell Corporation, and Nintendo.
1996: Summer Pro League Debut
In 1996, Kobe Bryant debuted in the Summer Pro League in Long Beach, California, scoring 25 points. He also became the second-youngest player ever to play in an NBA game.
1996: Decided to Enter the NBA
In 1996, Kobe Bryant decided to go directly into the NBA, becoming only the sixth player in NBA history to do so at 17 years old. He also took R&B singer Brandy to her Hollywood High senior prom.
1996: Declared for NBA Draft
In 1996, Kobe Bryant declared for the NBA draft after being recognized as the top American high-school basketball player.
1996: Magic Johnson's Playoff Assists
In 1996, Magic Johnson recorded 13 assists in a playoff game, a mark Kobe Bryant later matched in 2010.
1997: Appearance on Hang Time
In 1997, Kobe Bryant appeared on an episode of the television series Hang Time.
1997: Music Career and Collaborations
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." He also appeared on Lakers teammate O'Neal's Respect album on the track "3 X's Dope".
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 and All-Rookie Team Selection
In 1997, Kobe Bryant won the Slam Dunk Contest, becoming the youngest dunk champion at the age of 18, and was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
1997: Slam Dunk Contest Win
In 1997, as a rookie, Kobe Bryant won the Slam Dunk Contest.
1998: Became Starting Guard
In 1998, Kobe Bryant became a starting guard for the Lakers and signed a six-year contract extension.
1998: Guest Appearance on All That
In 1998, Kobe Bryant made a guest appearance on the Nickelodeon sketch comedy series All That.
November 1999: Met Vanessa Laine
In November 1999, 21-year-old 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: Leading Scorer of the Decade
From 1999-00 to 2008–09, Kobe Bryant was the league's leading scorer, accumulating 21,065 points in regular-season play.
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 Sidelines Bryant
In 1999, Kobe Bryant was sidelined for six weeks due to a hand injury incurred during a preseason game against the Washington Wizards.
1999: Phil Jackson Became Coach
In 1999, Phil Jackson took over as coach of the Lakers, improving Bryant's fortunes.
January 2000: Release of "K.O.B.E." Single 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, it was not well-received. As a result, Sony abandoned plans for his debut album, Visions, which was scheduled to be released in the spring of 2000, and dropped Bryant later that year.
May 2000: Engaged to Vanessa Laine
In May 2000, Bryant became engaged to Vanessa Laine, six months after they met, while she was still a senior at Marina High School.
2000: Declined to play in the Olympics
In 2000, Bryant declined to play in the Olympics because he was getting married in the off-season.
2000: NBA Championship
In 2000, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal led the Lakers to an NBA championship.
2000: Continued Strong Performance and Team Leadership
In 2000, Kobe Bryant continued to play at a high level, leading the team in assists. He was also voted to start in the NBA All-Star Game for the third year in a row.
2000: Western Conference Finals
In 2000, the Lakers had their first seven-game series since the Western Conference Finals.
2000: Lakers Championship Victory
In 2000, the Lakers, led by the duo of O'Neal and Bryant, won 67 games. Bryant was named to the All-NBA Second Team and All-NBA Defensive Team. In the 2000 Finals against the Indiana Pacers, despite an ankle injury in Game 2, Bryant led the team to an overtime victory in Game 4. The Lakers secured a 116–111 victory in Game 6, winning their first championship since 1988.
2000: First gold medal since 2000 Olympics
On August 24, 2008, Team USA secured its first gold medal in a worldwide competition since the 2000 Olympics.
April 18, 2001: Married Vanessa Laine
On April 18, 2001, Bryant and Vanessa Laine were married at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church in Dana Point, California, in a ceremony not attended by his parents or Laker teammates.
2001: All-Star MVP Trophy and All-NBA First Team Selection
In 2001, Bryant won his first All-Star MVP trophy after a 31-point performance. He was also named to the All-NBA First Team for the first time in his career.
2001: NBA Championship
In 2001, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal won another NBA Championship
January 14, 2002: Career-High Scoring Game Against Grizzlies
On January 14, 2002, Kobe Bryant scored a then career-high 56 points in a victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
January 2002: Bought a house in Newport Coast
In January 2002, Bryant bought a Mediterranean-style house for $4 million, located on a cul-de-sac in Newport Coast, Newport Beach.
March 1, 2002: Suspension After Punching Reggie Miller
On March 1, 2002, Kobe Bryant punched Reggie Miller of the Indiana Pacers after the Lakers' victory over the Pacers, leading to a one-game suspension.
2002: 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 a loss to the Spurs.
2002: Declined to play in FIBA World Championship
In 2002, Bryant decided not to play in the FIBA World Championship.
2002: Third Consecutive NBA Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal led the Lakers to their third consecutive NBA championship.
2002: NBA Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal won another NBA Championship
2002: Third Consecutive NBA Finals Appearance and Championship
In 2002, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers made their third consecutive NBA Finals appearance, winning the championship against the New Jersey Nets. Bryant averaged 26.8 points during the finals and became the youngest player to win three championships.
January 7, 2003: NBA Record for Three-Pointers in a Game
On January 7, 2003, Kobe Bryant set an NBA record by making 12 three-pointers in a game against the Seattle SuperSonics.
January 2003: Birth of first daughter Natalia
In January 2003, the Bryants' first daughter, Natalia, was born.
June 18, 2003: Charged with sexual assault
On June 18, 2003, Bryant was charged in Eagle, Colorado, with sexual assault following an accusation by a 19-year-old hotel employee.
2003: Contract Extension with the Lakers
1998-99 season marked Bryant's emergence as a premier guard in the league. His six year contract was kept until the end of the 2003-04 season.
2003: Withdrew from FIBA Americas Championship
In 2003, Bryant was originally selected for the FIBA Americas Championship, but withdrew after undergoing arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries.
2003: Sexual Assault Allegation
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was charged with sexual assault, which was later dropped, and a lawsuit was settled out of court.
2003: Bryant was the leading vote-getter for All-Star Game
In 2003, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star Game.
2003: Second-Most Watched Game in ESPN History
In 2003, The first ever head-to-head meeting between Shaquille O'Neal and Yao Ming was the only one with more viewers than Lakers game after the crash against the Trail Blazers
2003: Fewest Shots Since 2003-04 Season
In the 2010-2011 season, Kobe Bryant finished averaging less than 20 shots a game, his fewest since the 2003–04 season.
2003: Turbulent Season
The 2003-04 Lakers season was tumultuous, as described in Phil Jackson's book, "The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul".
September 2004: Assault case dropped and public apology
In September 2004, the sexual assault case against Bryant was dropped after the accuser declined to testify. Bryant issued a public apology, acknowledging the accuser's different perception of the encounter and later settled a separate lawsuit privately.
2004: Kobe alienated NBA superstar
Circa 2004, Kobe was the most alienated superstar the NBA had ever seen.
2004: Sweep of the Nuggets
In 2004, The Denver Nuggets became the first 50-win team to be swept out of the first round of the playoffs since the Memphis Grizzlies fell in four games to the San Antonio Spurs in 2004.
2004: Lakers Lost NBA Finals
In 2004, the Lakers lost the NBA Finals, after which Shaquille O'Neal was traded.
2004: Lakers Reach NBA Finals, Bryant Resigns with Lakers
In 2004, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals but were defeated by the Detroit Pistons. Kobe Bryant re-signed with the Lakers on a seven-year, $136.4 million contract after declining an offer from the Los Angeles Clippers.
2004: Turbulent Season and Criticism
The 2004 season was difficult for Kobe Bryant, marked by scrutiny and criticism. Phil Jackson's book, "The Last Season: A Team in Search of Its Soul", criticized Bryant, and the Lakers missed the playoffs.
December 20, 2005: 62 Points in Three Quarters Against Mavericks
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 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: Bryant led the NBA in scoring
During the 2005–06 season, Kobe Bryant led the NBA in scoring.
2005: Vanessa suffered a miscarriage
In the spring of 2005, Vanessa 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 made headlines by engaging in handshakes and hugs before a game against the Miami Heat, signaling a change in their feud.
January 22, 2006: Career-High 81 Points Against Raptors
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.
May 2006: Birth of second daughter Gianna
In May 2006, the Bryants' second daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore (also referred to as "Gigi"), was born.
2006: Bryant led the NBA in scoring
During the 2006–07 season, Kobe Bryant led the NBA in scoring. Also, Kobe Bryant's 81-point performance against Toronto in 2006 was the second-highest in NBA history.
2006: All-Star Game MVP and 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: Named to U.S. preliminary roster, sidelined after knee surgery
In 2006, Bryant, along with LeBron James, was named to the 2006–2008 U.S. preliminary roster by Jerry Colangelo. However, he was sidelined after knee surgery and did not participate in the 2006 FIBA World Championship.
2006: Jersey Number Change and Playoff Performance
In 2006, Kobe Bryant changed his jersey number from 8 to 24. The Lakers reached a 3–1 series lead over the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs but ultimately lost in seven games.
May 27, 2007: Trade Request and Reconsideration
On May 27, 2007, Kobe Bryant expressed a desire to be traded if Jerry West didn't return with full authority, then denied making the statement, and later publicly demanded a trade before reconsidering after a conversation with coach Jackson.
December 23, 2007: Youngest to Reach 20,000 Points
On December 23, 2007, at 29 years and 122 days, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player to reach 20,000 points in a game against the New York Knicks.
2007: CNN estimated Bryant's endorsement deals
CNN estimated Bryant's endorsement deals in 2007 to be worth $16 million a year.
2007: Most alienated NBA superstar
Circa 2007, Kobe was the most alienated superstar the NBA had ever seen.
2007: Joined the United States national team
In 2007, Bryant's United States national team career began. He was a member of the 2007 USA Men's Senior National Team and USA FIBA Americas Championship Team that finished 10–0, won gold and qualified the United States men for the 2008 Olympics.
2007: Chronicle of Kobe Bryant's NBA Season
In 2007, Spike Lee documented Kobe Bryant's NBA season in preparation for the documentary film Kobe Doin' Work, which was released in 2009.
2007: Lakers' Playoff Performance
In 2007-08, The Lakers finished the regular season with a 57–25 record and reached the NBA Finals, marking Bryant's fifth appearance and first without O'Neal, ultimately losing to the Celtics in six games.
2007: Playoff Elimination
In the 2007 NBA playoffs, the Lakers were eliminated in the first round by the Phoenix Suns, 4–1.
February 5, 2008: Finger Injury
On February 5, 2008, Kobe Bryant suffered a significant finger injury during a game but chose to play all 82 games of the season without surgery, monitoring the injury daily.
May 6, 2008: Bryant Named League MVP
On May 6, 2008, Kobe Bryant was officially announced as the league MVP, leading his team to a West-leading 57–25 record.
May 8, 2008: All-NBA Team Selection
On May 8, 2008, Kobe Bryant was the only unanimous selection to the All-NBA team, marking his third straight season and sixth time overall, also headlining the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
June 23, 2008: Named to the USA Men's Senior National Team for the 2008 Summer Olympics
On June 23, 2008, Bryant was named to the USA Men's Senior National Team for the 2008 Summer Olympics, marking his first time going to the Olympics.
August 24, 2008: Won gold medal at the Olympics
On August 24, 2008, Team USA, with Bryant scoring 20 points, 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: Decision to Delay Finger Surgery
In September 2008, Kobe Bryant opted against undergoing surgery to repair his injured right pinkie finger.
2008: Commercials for Guitar Hero World Tour
Bryant appeared in commercials for the video games Guitar Hero World Tour in 2008.
2008: Played in the FIBA Americas Championship games
In 2008, Bryant started in all 10 of the USA's FIBA Americas Championship games, averaging 15.3 points, 2.9 assists, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game in the tournament.
2008: Sidelined after knee surgery
In 2008, Bryant was sidelined after knee surgery and did not participate in the 2006 FIBA World Championship.
2008: ESPN ranks Bryant as second-greatest shooting guard
In 2008, ESPN ranked Kobe Bryant as the second-greatest shooting guard of all time, only behind Michael Jordan.
2008: Donation to National Museum of African American History and Culture
In 2008, Kobe Bryant donated his uniform from the 2008 NBA Finals, the year he was named the league MVP, to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where he and his wife were founding donors.
2008: NBA MVP Award
In 2008, Kobe Bryant was named the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP).
2008: Bryant Wins MVP and Olympic Gold
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: Gold Medal at the Olympics
In 2008, Kobe Bryant won a gold medal on the U.S. Olympic team.
2008: Lakers' Finals Trip
In 2008-09, the Lakers earned their second straight trip to the NBA Finals, ultimately defeating the Orlando Magic in five games.
2008: Appeared in Nike Hyperdunk shoes video
In a 2008 video promoting Nike's Hyperdunk shoes, Bryant appeared to jump over a speeding Aston Martin, a stunt considered fake.
2008: Rematch against the Celtics
In a 2010 rematch against the 2008 Champion Boston Celtics, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers back from a 13-point deficit in Game 7 to win the championship and earned his second consecutive NBA Finals MVP award.
January 21, 2009: Previous Triple-Double
Before recording a triple-double in the 2010-2011 season, Kobe Bryant's previous triple-double occurred on January 21, 2009.
February 2, 2009: Madison Square Garden Scoring Record
On February 2, 2009, Kobe Bryant set a record for the most points scored at Madison Square Garden, tallying 61 points against the Knicks.
February 9, 2009: Featured on the cover of ESPN The Magazine
On February 9, 2009, Bryant was featured on the cover of ESPN The Magazine as a big fan of FC Barcelona.
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, securing a 108–107 victory for the Lakers against the Miami Heat.
2009: Revealed he grew up a New York Mets fan
During the 2009 National League Championship Series, Bryant revealed he grew up a fan of the New York Mets, wanting to be like Darryl Strawberry, and boasted that he still had a Ron Darling baseball card.
2009: Lil Wayne's Song "Kobe Bryant"
In 2009, American rapper Lil Wayne released a song titled "Kobe Bryant,"
2009: NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship and was named NBA Finals MVP.
2009: Bryant and Lakers win NBA Championship
In 2009, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship, winning the Finals MVP award.
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
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 at the Santa Monica Airport and presented a $1 million check to the Call of Duty Endowment, an Activision-founded nonprofit organization that helps veterans transition to civilian careers.
December 13, 2010: Signed endorsement deal with Turkish Airlines
On December 13, 2010, Bryant signed a two-year endorsement deal with Turkish Airlines, appearing in a promotional film aired in over 80 countries.
2010: Commercials for Call of Duty: Black Ops
Bryant appeared in commercials for the video games Call of Duty: Black Ops in 2010.
2010: Sho Baraka's Song "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: Youngest to Reach 25,000 Points
In 2010, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player (31 years, 151 days) to reach 25,000 career points, surpassing Chamberlain.
2010: NBA Championship and Finals MVP
In 2010, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship and was named NBA Finals MVP for the second time.
2010: Bryant and Lakers win NBA Championship again
In 2010, Kobe Bryant led the Lakers to another championship, winning the Finals MVP award for the second consecutive time.
2010: Nike launched Nike Zoom Kobe V
In 2010, Nike launched another shoe, Nike Zoom Kobe V.
2010: Winning Start to the Season
In the 2010–11 season, the Lakers started by winning their first eight games.
January 30, 2011: Youngest to 27,000 Points
On January 30, 2011, Kobe Bryant became the youngest player to score 27,000 points.
April 13, 2011: Fine for Gay Slur
On April 13, 2011, Kobe Bryant was fined $100,000 by the NBA for directing a gay slur at referee Bennie Adams and later apologized for his language.
December 16, 2011: Vanessa filed for divorce
On December 16, 2011, Vanessa Bryant filed for divorce, 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 downloads of the single and ringtones were donated to impoverished schools for basketball facilities and equipment, and Bryant also appeared in the music video. The song was used by Sprite in its 2011 marketing campaign in China.
2011: Bryant was the leading vote-getter for All-Star Game
In 2011, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star Game.
January 10, 2012: Scores 48 points against the Suns
On January 10, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 48 points against the Phoenix Suns, following a preseason ESPN ranking where he was considered the seventh-best player in the league. It was part of a streak where he scored 40 or more points in four straight games.
September 2012: Shot a commercial for Turkish Airlines with Lionel Messi
In September 2012, Bryant shot a commercial for Turkish Airlines with FC Barcelona star Lionel Messi, competing to win the attention of a young boy.
November 2, 2012: Passes Magic Johnson as Lakers career leader in steals
On November 2, 2012, Kobe Bryant scored 40 points with two steals, surpassing Magic Johnson (1,724) as the Lakers' career leader in steals. However, the Lakers lost the game to the Clippers and started the season 0–3 for the first time in 34 years.
2012: Started referring to himself as "vino"
During the 2012–13 season, Bryant began referring to himself as "vino" to describe how his play had been aging like a fine wine.
2012: Chief Keef's Song "Kobe"
In 2012, American rapper Chief Keef released "Kobe", a song paying tribute to Bryant, and featured on his debut studio album, Finally Rich, as a part of the deluxe edition.
2012: Won another gold medal and retired from the national team
In 2012, Bryant rejoined the national team for the Summer Olympics, and after winning another gold medal, he decided to retire from the team. He finished his national team career with a record of 26–0 across three tournaments, winning a gold medal each time.
2012: Honored as a McDonald's All-American
In 2012, Kobe Bryant was honored as one of the 35 Greatest McDonald's All-Americans for his high school play as well as his later accomplishments.
2012: Second Gold Medal at the Olympics
In 2012, Kobe Bryant won a second gold medal on the U.S. Olympic team.
2012: Bryant wins another Olympic gold medal
In 2012, Kobe Bryant won another gold medal at the Summer Olympics.
2012: Selected as the player general managers would want to take a clutch shot
In a 2012 annual survey of NBA general managers, 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.
2012: Achilles Tendon Injury
In the 2012-13 season, Kobe Bryant suffered a torn achilles tendon.
January 11, 2013: Called off their divorce
On January 11, 2013, Bryant and his wife announced via social media that they had called off their divorce.
March 30, 2013: Surpasses Chamberlain as fourth-leading scorer
On March 30, 2013, Kobe Bryant surpassed Wilt Chamberlain to become the fourth-leading scorer in NBA league history, during a victory over Sacramento.
April 10, 2013: First player with 47 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and three steals in a game
On April 10, 2013, Kobe Bryant became the first player in NBA history to achieve 47 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four blocks, and three steals in a single game.
November 2013: Resumes Practicing
In November 2013, Kobe Bryant resumed practicing with the Lakers after the 2013-14 season had already begun, following recovery from an injury.
2013: Legal disagreement with auction house
In 2013, Bryant had a legal disagreement with an auction house over memorabilia from his early years that his parents had put up for auction, eventually reaching a settlement to allow the sale of less than 10% of the items.
2013: Listed as fifth-highest paid sports star in the world
In 2013, Forbes listed Bryant the fifth-highest paid sports star in the world behind Floyd Mayweather, Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James, and Lionel Messi.
2013: Launch of Granity Studios
In 2013, Kobe Bryant launched Granity Studios, a production company that developed various media, including films, television shows, and novels.
2013: Bryant was the leading vote-getter for All-Star Game
In 2013, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star Game.
2013: Postponement of Lakers Game Due to Boston Marathon Bombing
In 2013, The NBA postponed the Lakers' game against the Clippers just two days after the accident on January 28, which was the first time an NBA game was postponed for any reason since the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing led to the postponement of a Celtics game.
March 12, 2014: Ruled out for the rest of the season
On March 12, 2014, the Lakers ruled Kobe Bryant out for the remainder of the season due to his need for more rehab and the limited time remaining, following a lateral tibial plateau fracture in his left knee.
March 2014: Initial Investment in Bodyarmor SuperDrink
In March 2014, Kobe Bryant established Kobe Inc. with an initial investment of a 10% stake in the Bodyarmor SuperDrink company for $6 million.
November 30, 2014: Records 20th career triple-double
On November 30, 2014, in a 129–122 overtime victory over the Toronto Raptors, Kobe Bryant recorded his 20th career triple-double with 31 points, 12 assists, and 11 rebounds, becoming the oldest NBA player to achieve 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game at age 36.
January 21, 2015: Suffers rotator cuff tear
On January 21, 2015, Kobe Bryant suffered a rotator cuff tear in his right shoulder while driving baseline for a two-handed dunk against the New Orleans Pelicans, leading to season-ending surgery. However, he returned to play in the game and ran the offense while shooting, dribbling, and passing almost exclusively with his left hand.
May 2015: Sold his house in Newport Coast
In May 2015, Bryant sold the house he owned in Newport Coast.
November 24, 2015: Worst-shooting game of career
On November 24, 2015, the Lakers fell to 2–12 after losing 111–77 to the Warriors. Kobe Bryant scored just four points in 25 minutes on 1-for-14 shooting, matching the worst-shooting game of his career in which he attempted at least five shots.
November 29, 2015: Announces retirement
On November 29, 2015, Kobe Bryant announced his retirement at the end of the season via The Players' Tribune in his poem titled "Dear Basketball", citing his body's inability to continue.
2015: Late Career Injuries
The last years of Kobe Bryant's playing career were hampered by injuries and limited playing time. 2015 was one of the seasons plagued by injuries.
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, Vanessa gave birth to their third daughter.
2016: ESPN again ranks Bryant as second-greatest shooting guard
In 2016, ESPN again ranked Kobe Bryant as the second-greatest shooting guard of all time, only behind Michael Jordan.
2016: Bryant was the leading vote-getter for All-Star Game
In 2016, Kobe Bryant was the leading vote-getter for the All-Star Game.
December 18, 2017: Lakers retire Kobe Bryant's jersey numbers
On December 18, 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers retired both jersey numbers worn by Kobe Bryant during his career, numbers 8 and 24.
2017: Lakers Retired Numbers
In 2017, the Lakers retired both Kobe Bryant's Nos. 8 and 24, making him the only player in NBA history to have multiple numbers retired by the same franchise.
August 2018: Increased Value of BodyArmor Stake
In August 2018, The Coca-Cola Company purchased a minority stake in Bodyarmor SuperDrink, resulting in Kobe Bryant's stake being valued at 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 by MCD / Farrar, Straus and Giroux, featuring photographs and an afterword by Andrew D. Bernstein, an introduction by Phil Jackson, and a foreword by Pau Gasol. The book looks back on his career with photos and his reflections.
2018: Appearance in In Memoriam Segment of Academy Awards
In 2018, Kobe Bryant also appeared at the start of the In Memoriam segment of the 92nd Academy Awards following his Oscar in 2018 for Dear Basketball, and Spike Lee wore a suit in tribute to him at the ceremony.
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: 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, as well as the first former professional athlete to win an Oscar in any category, for his film Dear Basketball. The film also won the Annie Award for Best Animated Short Subject and a Sports Emmy Award. Bryant was denied membership into the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences due to his past sexual abuse case. The film was produced by Bryant's production company, Granity Studios.
2018: Launch of Television Series Detail
In 2018, Kobe Bryant began writing, producing, and hosting the television series Detail, which aired for multiple seasons on ESPN and ESPN+. The show featured his basketball insights and analyses of games and players.
2018: Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film
In 2018, Kobe Bryant won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film for Dear Basketball (2017).
January 2019: Announced they were expecting a fourth daughter
In January 2019, the Bryants announced they were expecting a fourth daughter.
June 2019: Birth of fourth daughter
In June 2019, the Bryants' fourth daughter was born.
2019: Global ambassador of the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China
In 2019, Bryant was one of the global ambassadors of the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China.
2019: Appearance on MTV's Ridiculousness
In 2019, Kobe Bryant appeared on MTV's Ridiculousness.
January 2020: Death in Helicopter Crash
In January 2020, Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna were among nine people who died 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, the fourth novel co-written/produced by Kobe Bryant through Granity Studios, The Wizenard Series: Season One, was released posthumously, topping 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, the Mamba Sports Academy was renamed to Sports Academy out of respect for Kobe Bryant.
August 2020: Omission from VMAs and Emmys Montages
In August 2020, Kobe Bryant was not included in the montages at the 2020 VMAs and Emmys. Fans were upset at the omission.
2020: Lakers Wear 'Black Mamba' Jerseys in Playoffs
During the 2020 NBA playoffs, the Lakers' players wore 'Black Mamba' jerseys in honor of Kobe Bryant.
2020: Snoop Dogg's Homage Tattoo and Lakers' Championship
In 2020, After the Lakers beat the Miami Heat in Game 6 of the 2020 NBA Finals to clinch the franchise's 17th NBA championship, rapper Snoop Dogg paid homage to Kobe Bryant and the Lakers with a full forearm tattoo.
2020: Honorary WNBA Draft Picks
In 2020, Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli, and Payton Chester were made honorary draft picks in the WNBA draft.
2020: Tributes at the 2020 Pro Bowl
In 2020, the 2020 Pro Bowl was played at Camping World Stadium in Orlando on the day of the crash, and before kickoff, NFC players who learned of Bryant's death conducted a prayer led by Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, while various on-field and PA tributes were made during the game.
February 9, 2021: NTSB Report on Helicopter Crash
On February 9, 2021, over a year after the crash, the NTSB declared that pilot Ara Zobayan likely became disoriented after flying into thick clouds, and that he ignored his training and violated federal regulations during the flight.
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: Named to NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Kobe Bryant was posthumously named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
January 26, 2022: Statue of Kobe and Gianna Bryant Placed at Crash Site
On January 26, 2022, coinciding with the second anniversary of his death, a statue of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna was placed at the site where the helicopter crash occurred.
2022: Vanessa Bryant Awarded $15 Million in Civil Trial
In 2022, Vanessa Bryant was awarded $15 million from L.A. County in a civil trial, included in a later settlement to conclude legal proceedings over graphic photos of the aftermath of the helicopter crash that were shared without the permission of the family.
2022: Bryant named 10th-greatest player in NBA history by The Athletic
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: Vanessa Bryant Awarded $28.85 Million Settlement
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 the permission of the family.
August 24, 2023: Kobe Bryant Statue Reveal Date Announced
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: Scheduled Reveal Date for Kobe Bryant Statue
On February 8, 2024, Kobe Bryant's statue outside of the Crypto.com Arena is scheduled to be revealed, honoring his two numbers with the Lakers, 8 and 24, and 2 for the number of his daughter Gianna.
2024: LeBron James broke Bryant's record
Until LeBron James broke that record in 2024, Bryant missed more field goal attempts in his career than any other player in NBA history.
February 2025: Bryant to Get 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.
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