In the United States, the average life expectancy is about 78 years old for the average male, according to a study by World Bank in 2016. But Kobe Bean Bryant accomplished more on and off the basketball court in a little over half of that time than most people will in a lifetime.

Kobe Bryant died on Jan. 26, 2020 in a sudden helicopter accident with his daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore Bryant, who also died in the crash, leaving behind a wife and 3 other daughters. Also, 7 other people tragically died in the accident.

At 17 years old, Bryant was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets with the 13th overall pick and traded to the historical Los Angeles Lakers. He won his first NBA championship by his fourth year with the Lakers, and by the end of his career, he won 5 NBA championships in 20 years. In addition to that, he played in 15 All-Star games, won 4 All-Star game MVP, and a single regular-season MVP.

   Despite his success and respect gained in the 20 years on the court, he had a “second career” that was just getting started and was heading in the right direction. Within the first two years of retirement, he won an Oscar for his short film, “Dear Basketball”. According to an article written by The Wrap, “Kobe Bryant became the first person to win both a sporting championship and an Oscar on Sunday with his victory in the Best Animated Short Film for “Dear Basketball.”

Bryant wasn’t only savvy on the court trying to score but was also savvy and creative when it came to business. In 2013, Bryant co-founded a venture capital firm called “Bryant Stibel” with Jeff Stibel. This company would provide start-up companies and small businesses with investments to help them flourish and become successful.

There is no question that Kobe was successful on the court and off the court, but he was also an inspiration to many people all around the world. Bryant’s work ethic inspired many to work harder on their craft, whether it was on the basketball court, football field and even to go above and beyond at school.

Nick Gaschler, a sophomore student and JV football player, said, “It inspires me every day because if Kobe could do it, anyone with a want to get better could do it. And he pushed himself to the limit that not a lot of people could or are willing to do and people have respect for that.”

Kofi Kessey, Staff Reporter