The Black Mamba: Lessons from and Tribute to Kobe Bryant
On Sunday, January 26, 2020, the world froze with uncertainty as TMZ broke the news that Kobe Bryant had died in a horrific helicopter crash. Upon confirmation of his death, millions of people flooded various media outlets to share their reactions and reflections on his life. While this article will not attempt to capture every lesson that can be drawn, there are a few ideas for leaders from this legacy of one of the greatest competitors, sports ambassadors, and businessmen, Kobe Bryant.
Eye of the Tiger
Bryant entered the NBA as a young, confident talent whose goal was to win. Many criticized his personality due to his confidence and boisterous attitude, but I liken Bryant’s determination to that of a tiger. Tigers, like Kobe Bryant are known for having a laser focus on their prey. When a tiger sees its target, its eyes are locked on the moving object. Those watching the tiger hope that its attention will not turn toward them, but when a tiger has its eyes on its target there is nothing that will distract it from pursuing its goal. Like a tiger, Bryant, did not allow himself to be distracted from naysayers, fans, critics, analysts, or enemies.
Leaders can learn from this. In my tenure in leadership, both in pastoral ministry and various professional settings, I have learned that focus, determination, and discipline in the face of criticism is paramount if one is going to be successful. While I believe that one should remain attentive to people’s needs and seek reconciliation from those who bear faults against them, one should not allow people problems or other distractions to divert them from their purpose and vision.
Fall and Get Up
Throughout Bryant’s career, he faced several challenges. From falling short in several playoff runs, to facing accusations of rape (which exposed his infidelity against his wife), to inter-team conflicts, to several severe injuries, Bryant fell and faced career-ending challenges. Coaches, teammates, trainers, competitors, and friends have all noted Bryant’s relentless attitude toward getting up from a fall. Bryant’s determination to rise above the mess has been on display throughout his remarkable career.
Like Bryant, many of us fall. We face various forms of giants, we sin, and we encounter various mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual injuries. What determines success is our ability to get up. When I find myself facing another giant challenge, I am reminded that I have been through a challenge before, and that challenge has prepared me for this moment. I have no choice but to win if I choose to not quit. To the leaders reading this, you will win. You must refuse to quit. People will leave you, you will be criticized, and you will have the urge to quit. Welcome to the club; every leader has gone through this. Yet whatever you do, get up and continue to press forward.
A Winner’s Heart
In the face of various adversities, Bryant was a five time NBA champion, a successful businessman, and a dedicated family man. In the end, Kobe Bryant was a winner. Bryant’s accomplishments are cemented in history. Not only did Bryant win during his time in the NBA, but he was a winner who celebrated winners. Kobe Bryant’s last tweet before his heart-wrenching death displayed him celebrating the greatness of another champion, Lebron James, who surpassed an element of his greatness. While fans and sports analysts debate who the greatest basketball player is, great leaders are those who not only pass the torch up (not down) to the younger generation, but also pay homage to their greatness. Bryant models to us that leaders celebrate the wins of other winners, even if the win is greater than theirs. May we have the heart to celebrate the wins of others.
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Salute to The Black Mamba, who now joins the community of Black ancestors, who not only demonstrated Black excellence but also left a blueprint for Black people to continue. Kobe Bryant is a part of Black history – which ultimately is world history. Long live Kobe Bryant.
