Granity Studios
After announcing his retirement from the NBA, Bryant shifted his focus to his passion for storytelling. He achieved an Academy Award for his animated short film, “Dear Basketball”, in which he pens a heartfelt farewell letter to the sport that meant so much to him. He then founded Granity Studios with the mission of crafting captivating and impactful stories centered around sports. The company has published books that combine education and inspiration together to encourage readers to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles.
The Mamba and Mambacita Foundation: Continuing the Legacy
Tragically, Kobe and Gigi, along with seven others, lost their lives in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. In the wake of this devastating loss, Vanessa Bryant, dedicated herself to carrying on Kobe’s legacy and founded the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation, to create a positive impact for underserved athletes and women in sports.
The foundation’s inaugural event, the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation Skills Academy, was held in October 2020. In partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, the camp included 11-13 year-old co-ed players from all skill levels. The camp aimed to provide a supportive environment for participants to develop their skills, aligning with Bryant’s commitment to empowerment.