Kobe Bryant’s Last Interview: His Connection with Gigi and His Love for Storytelling
After retiring from the NBA, Kobe Bryant quickly immersed himself in new ventures that excited him, utilizing his newly available time.
These endeavors led the former Los Angeles Lakers star to earn an Oscar and gain admiration as a proud #GirlDad.
Sadly, his post-basketball life was abruptly ended when both he and eight others, including his daughter Gianna, died tragically in a helicopter crash.
Just days before this tragic incident, Bryant was interviewed by former YSL News reporter Mark Medina in one of his final on-camera appearances.
Kobe Bryant’s Endeavors Beyond Basketball
Bryant authored a book series titled “The Wizenard Series: Training Camp,” channeling his storytelling passion through characters inspired by key figures from his career, like Phil Jackson and Bill Russell.
He also envisioned adapting his books into feature films. Bryant had already made strides in the film world, receiving an Oscar for his short film “Dear Basketball.”
“They rank among my greatest achievements,” Bryant remarked during his YSL News interview, referencing his entertainment accolades. “It was unexpected. As a kid, I aimed for championships; I never anticipated being part of this industry.”
In 2018, as an executive producer, he won the award for best animated short film, based on a poem he wrote in 2015 to announce his retirement from basketball.
Kobe Bryant as a Proud #GirlDad
Post-retirement, Bryant frequently attended NBA and WNBA events with Gianna by his side.
The hashtag #GirlDad gained momentum on social media after Kobe’s passing, largely due to a touching story shared by ESPN SportsCenter anchor Elle Duncan about her conversation with him when she was eight months pregnant, discussing their daughters.
Kobe, who had four daughters, expressed, “If I could, I’d have five more girls. I’m a girl dad.”
Kobe shared a special connection with Gianna, his second daughter, bonded through their mutual love for basketball.
“She loved the pace and intensity of the game,” he noted during his YSL News interview, reflecting on how Gianna felt attending NBA games. “Watching it on TV is one thing, but being there live is something else entirely.”
Bryant even had the chance to coach Gianna and her team.
“It’s been wonderful,” he shared. “Watching them grow, develop, and improve is amazing. More than just the game itself, it’s crucial to understand how their confidence as young women flourishes through playing sports, and we must be aware of that.”
In August 2024, a statue commemorating Kobe and Gianna together was unveiled outside Crypto.com Arena.
