How Kobe Bryant gave himself different edge on court with 'Mamba' mentality

NBA legend Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and seven ors passed away in a tragic helicopter accident in California on Sunday. According to reports, Kobe Bryant was headed to one of Gianna's basketball games.  crash occurred during foggy wear conditions and is currently under investigation. NBA fans and players immediately reached out, offering condolences to Bryant and his family. 

Kobe Bryant death: Why is Kobe called Mamba?

NBA players and fans often referred to Kobe Bryant as Black Mamba. In recent years, name has been shortened to just Mamba. name Black Mamba actually originates from an alter ego Bryant himself created to give himself a different edge on while playing on court. He even gave a detailed explanation for origin of name in documentary called 'Muse'. 

In an interview with a magazine, Bryant had revealed that he did so to separate himself. He felt that re were a lot of things surrounding him at once and everything became very confusing for him. In order to organize everything, Kobe Bryant created ' Black Mamba'. 

He even explained process behind creating his Mamba Mentality. According to Bryant, he wanted to destroy everyone on court and needed to let out all his pent up frustration. He wanted thing to get in his way and was determined to let thing stop him. Kobe Bryant wrote about Mamba mentality in his book of same name. 

Also read | Kobe Bryant death: NBA world's tribute to Kobe Bryant daughter and legend passing away

Kobe Bryant death: world pays tribute to Black Mamba

Kobe Bryant fans gared around Staples Center, where Grammys were being held. While award show was going on, an impromptu memorial was also created for Black Mamba. San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors stopped ir game to hour Kobe Bryant, committing a violation of 24 seconds. 24 was Bryant's jersey number for second half of his career. Dallas Mavericks also paid a tribute to him, stating that player will ever wear .24 jersey in his hour. 

Also read | Kobe Bryant death: NBA and Lakers legend killed in tragic California helicopter crash

Kobe Bryant dead: Lakers legend's NBA career

Kobe Bryant played with Lakers for two decades, starting as an 18-year-old rookie in 1996. Bryant retired in 2016, third on all-time NBA scoring list. He had five NBA championships to his name, winning NBA MVP award in 2008. Bryant had a career aver of 25 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game. Kobe Bryant even paired up with LeBron James for Olympics, winning country two gold medals in 2008 and 2012 respectively. 

Also read | Kobe Bryant opens up on ultimate dream of 'inspiring children' in final-ever interview

Kobe Bryant death: Mamba Sports Academy is based on  Mamba mentality

Mamba Sports Academy is a facility formed by Kobe Bryant to help people activate and unlock ir fullest potential. academy was formed in 2018 and uses Kobe Bryant's mentality as one of its objectives. Mamba Sports Academy operates three distinct business units – Sport-specific physical training academies, a sports-focused venture lab, and a charitable foundation called Mamba Sports Foundation.

Also read | Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna shared a special bond over ir love for basketball