Today Isn’t Business As Usual: Remembering Kobe Bryant

In an era of information overload, it’s easy to feel that yesterday’s news is like yesteryears news.

I’m looking at my schedule this morning - meeting a couple investors, followed by a few founders. I’m thinking about what we’ll talk about - sharing deal flow, learning about the product they’re building. But I can’t help but feel like I’m betraying myself. This morning, I want to remember Kobe Bryant.

We all know about his greatness as a basketball player. Those who follow him from afar may also know he was just beginning his second act: winning an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film and launching a venture investing career by investing in LegalZoom, Scopely, Art of Sport, and The Honest Company.

This morning, I want to remember the two traits that made him one of my role models.  

Heart of Rudy Ruettiger

The basketball community expected great things from Kobe Bryant the day he joined the NBA out of high school. By his fourth season, he was already a great player, averaging 22 points per game and winning an NBA championship. And he never got complacent.

Many stories have been told about Kobe Bryant’s legendary work ethic. My favorite story was the time he worked out for 7 hours, starting at 4am, before practice with USA Basketball (link).

The story of Rudy Ruettiger is a great one because it highlights one thing that everyone can do - work hard. Even if you don’t have the physical characteristics to excel at a sport, you can work hard and be a contributing member. Kobe Bryant had the body of a basketball athlete, and he constantly embodied the heart and work ethic of Rudy Ruettiger.

Poise

Not as much is written about his poise. Yet, it’s how he compliments other athletes when he speaks out.

• On Brandon Ingram in March 2016: “I think he plays with a lot of poise… extremely long and he knows how to use it. I was very impressed."
• On Coco Gauff in August 2019: “Coco, man, it's amazing at that age. Not just the skill she possesses, but the poise. Dropping the first set, but being able to maintain her cool and maintain her composure. Not get rattled.”

Poise is difficult to define. It’s an intangible presence and feeling. In high pressure moments, poise from the leaders will help others feel at ease. If you watch one of his NBA Finals games, notice he keeps his emotions at bay. It’s as if he pushes his emotions aside and continues to focus his energy on what’s happening. Emotions can cloud your judgment. Kobe was a master at poise, staying calm and being present. Understanding the moment that’s about to unfold and staying true to his craft.

Thank you Kobe, for the memories and the inspiration.