Kobe Bryant Writes Letter To Younger Self for The Players’ Tribune

A post-retirement Kobe Bryant wrote a fantastic letter to his younger self that hit home for many NBA players and Lakers fans

Kobe Bryant, the now retired icon who wrapped up a magical 20-year stint with the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this year, recently wrote a letter to his younger self on The Players’ Tribune.

Bryant, who won the Icon Award at last week’s ESPYS, touched on the importance of instilling independence in his personal confidants rather than simply providing them materialistic items.

Much of the message from Kobe centered on how he handled his wealth at a young age and how he handled that in regards to family, saying, “Purely giving material things to your siblings and friends may appear to be the right decision. You love them, and they were always there for you growing up, so it’s only right that they should share in your success and all that comes with it.”

However, Bryant lamented that decision by saying that even though that seems like “the right thing” that it’s actually a move that’s harmful in a way to everyone involved.

Perhaps he most eloquently summed his message to his younger self up when he said, “Use your success, wealth and influence to put them in the best position to realize their own dreams and find their true purpose.”

These are some pretty poignant remarks from Bryant, who has a long-documented, turbulent relationship with his parents, whom he allegedly hasn’t spoken to in nearly three years. Therefore, it is fair to wonder if the piece was directed towards them and/or other family members.

Even if there were personal tones to his words, though, the reaction to Bryant’s piece was fantastic, as other athletes took to social media to thank him for his heartfelt piece.

Overall, it’s nice to see Kobe Bryant using his legendary status to broach issues that all successful individuals have to face. Whether one is a successful basketball player or a prosperous business owner, Bryant’s words speak to the general public in typical Mamba fashion.

Here’s to hoping that this isn’t the last letter to his younger self or last bit of wisdom that Kobe has to offer now that his playing career has ended.