“Kobe!” 

Something every kid in the early 2000’s grew up saying as they threw a crumpled–up piece of paper into a trash can.  

Kobe Bryant was more than just a NBA player; he was a global legend. He set the standard for competition on and off the court and made an impact on the world that traveled further than just basketball.  

 Young athletes all over the world grew up watching Bryant’s legacy develop right before their very eyes. A legacy based on an insane work ethic and a vicious “Mamba Mentality”.  

 “(Kobe’s) mentality, I mean I don’t really know anyone else who can reach that type of level with the way he went about his business. Everyone tries to get to that level, that Mamba Mentality, that tier,” Colorado Mesa University point guard George Dancer said. “It’s just heart breaking, especially after you find out his daughter was with him too and all those other young girls. He just meant so much to so many people.”   

 The five-time NBA Champion’s work ethic is something that really inspired youth basketball players. He was someone to look up to, day in and day out, with the reassurance that he would be the hardest worker on the court.  

 “Honestly, he shaped my game with the work ethic he had. I’d always, like, hear crazy stories about how he’d work out so much, wake up at three in the morning and work out,” junior guard David Rico said. “I kind of just try to mold my game with (Kobe’s) work ethic and keep that Mamba Mentality.”  

Kobe does have somewhat of a direct tie to the state of Colorado. In 2003 Bryant was involved with a sexual assault case that, for a while, left a dark blemish on his outstanding resume. Due to this, some have a differencing opinion about Bryant and his legacy.  

 “If I’m being 100 percent honest, it’s a terrible tragedy to lose him and he was a great player. It’s not our job to judge but he did have a lot of conflicting kinds of issues over his life, particularly here in Colorado. Anybody who treats women that way, I have a hard time speaking to their character,” CMU men’s basketball Head Coach Mike DeGeorge said. “Obviously it’s a terrible loss. He really worked to become a family man from what I understand.”  

 Regardless of the various opinions that can be found about Kobe, a couple things are clear. The positive impact this man left on millions of athletes’ lives is undeniable as well as the type of work ethic and skill he brought to the table. Bryant is someone who will never be replaced or surpassed in that aspect. Thoughts and prayers continue to go out to those involved and effected by the tragic loss of basketball legend, Kobe Bryant, as well as the other lives taken.