Everything You Need to Know About Lakers Legend Kobe Bryant Winning an Oscar Award

I knew the late Kobe Bryant for his immaculate work ethic on the basketball court. In his 20-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant won 5 NBA championships, 1 MVP, 2 Finals MVPs, and most importantly, loads of love from his fans. However, winning did not stop there for the Lakers legend. After his retirement from basketball in 2016, Bryant went on to win an Oscar in 2018.

An animated short film on the story of the former Lakers forward, which was written by Kobe himself, was a treat for both basketball and movie fans. The short film continues to inspire kids, youngsters, and even grown men to follow their dreams.

Kobe Bryant won an Oscar for ‘Dear Basketball’ in 2018

It’s no doubt that Kobe Bryant wanted the best, no matter what. When a goal was set by the Lakers legend, nothing could stop him. However, Bryant’s Oscars win was something the fans were not expecting after his retirement. Kobe and his team made sure they gave their best to the audience, which turned out to be an inspiration.

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Directed by Glen Keane, ‘Dear Basketball’ was released in 2017 and was narrated and written by the Black Mamba himself. Bryant made sure his words got etched into fans’ memories through his beautiful narration. Talking about the story of his own life, Bryant shared what it takes to follow one’s dream.

In addition to the eye-catching animated visuals, the soulful background score by legendary music composer John Williams added more worth to the film. Bryant’s narration on what made him choose basketball to what made him let go of it is elegantly narrated in the short film.

The Black Mamba made history with his Oscars win

In 2018, Bryant made history by winning the Academy Award for best animated short film. He became the first-ever professional athlete to win an Oscar. Unable to control his happiness, Bryant mentioned, “As basketball players, we are really supposed to shut up and dribble, but I’m glad we do a little bit more than that” on the stage after claiming the award at the Oscars. 

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It is pretty evident that the mamba’s motive to inspire the people through his story has been accomplished. Fans’ love and admiration for the 5x NBA champion was evident when a petition to make Bryant the new face of the NBA logo resurfaced 3 years after his unfortunate demise.

What are your thoughts on the short film ‘Dear Basketball’? Share in the comments below.