I cant believe its about to come to a close. When Kobe retires the NBA will not be the same to me. I'm a fan of the sport but Kobe transcends the sport for me. Kobe Bryant has had such a big impact on my life whether I realized it or not. When I was young I remember watching him play to help cope with the death of my grandfather. My grandfather and I were huge Sonics fans. When he died I didn't enjoy watching them as much because it was something we did together.
Kobes work ethic has also had an impact on my life as well. His ability to exemplify how success can come from working hard and having confidence in yourself when others don't really has been instilled in me. His ability to grow through his failures on and off the basketball court resonates with me as well. He has an innate ability to inspire fans all around the globe through his world renowned work ethic.
Kobe to me is much more than just an NBA athlete. He is a mentor, an idol, an icon, a leader, and so much more. I would love to have the opportunity to thank Kobe for all that he has sacrificed for his fans. From waking up at 4am to get shots up to spending hours lifting weights all before practice to all the time he spend away from his family to be the best that he could. Kobe I thank you for everything.
