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The Mamba Mentality: How I Play
In the wake of his retirement from professional basketball, Kobe “The Black Mamba” Bryant has decided to share his vast knowledge and understanding of the game to take readers on an unprecedented journey to the core of the legendary “Mamba mentality.” Citing an obligation and an opportunity to teach young players, hardcore fans, and devoted students of the game how to play it “the right way,” The Mamba Mentality takes us inside the mind of one of the most intelligent, analytical, and creative basketball players ever.
For the first time, and in his own words, Bryant reveals his famously detailed approach and the steps he took to prepare mentally and physically to not just succeed at the game, but to excel. Readers will learn how Bryant studied an opponent, how he channeled his passion for the game, how he played through injuries. They’ll also get fascinating granular detail as he breaks down specific plays and match-ups from throughout his career.
Bryant’s detailed accounts are paired with stunning photographs by the Hall of Fame photographer Andrew D. Bernstein. Bernstein, long the Lakers and NBA official photographer, captured Bryant’s very first NBA photo in 1996 and his last in 2016—and hundreds of thousands in between, the record of a unique, twenty-year relationship between one athlete and one photographer.
For the first time, and in his own words, Bryant reveals his famously detailed approach and the steps he took to prepare mentally and physically to not just succeed at the game, but to excel. Readers will learn how Bryant studied an opponent, how he channeled his passion for the game, how he played through injuries. They’ll also get fascinating granular detail as he breaks down specific plays and match-ups from throughout his career.
Bryant’s detailed accounts are paired with stunning photographs by the Hall of Fame photographer Andrew D. Bernstein. Bernstein, long the Lakers and NBA official photographer, captured Bryant’s very first NBA photo in 1996 and his last in 2016—and hundreds of thousands in between, the record of a unique, twenty-year relationship between one athlete and one photographer.
208 pages, Hardcover
Published October 23, 2018
About the author
Kobe Bryant
27 books24.2k followersKobe Bryant was an Academy Award–winning storyteller and content creator. He spent his days building stories to inspire the next generation of athletes to be the best versions of themselves. Kobe was a five-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, NBA MVP, and two-time Olympic gold medalist. He hoped to share all he learned with young athletes around the world.
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September 12, 2023
Summary
Kobe Bryant was an American professional basketball player who had a great 20 years long career with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. This book tells us more about the mamba mentality and his basketball career. He vividly mentions all the techniques he had implemented against various players and teams.
What I learned from this book
1) What does the term Mamba Mentality mean?
Bryant was commonly referred to as the Black Mamba (named after the deadly assassins in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill). He started it as a hashtag on Twitter, which later became viral.
2) What was the secret behind Kobe Bryant’s success?
Kobe mentions all the secrets behind his success in this book. The most important reason for his success was his hard work right from his childhood. We can see Kobe and his friends mentioning the importance of hard work in multiple parts of this book
3) Role of Coaches in a sportspersons life
Kobe mentions all the coaches who helped him become a successful player and tells us the importance of coaches in a player's life.
4) What Kobe’s team mates has to tell about him?
Kobe was not only a good friend but also a great leader and mentor to his teammates.
5) How Kobe was able to tackle his injuries?
Kobe had to face several severe injuries in his career. But he was able to overcome injuries and come back strongly. Everybody thought it was the end of his career when he had a severe Achilles injury in 2013. But he bounced back from it as a stronger player.
6) Kobe knew what exactly he wanted and how exactly he could get it
In 2008 Kobe wanted his next signature sneaker to be a low top. But Nike was not ready to do it. He persuaded Nike to make what he wanted.
7) Why many people love Kobe Bryant so much?
Kobe Bryant was one of the best players that the game of basketball had ever seen. But that is not the only reason why many people love Kobe so much. He was one of the most compassionate sportsperson the world has ever seen. He was credited with granting more than 200 requests for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
I request you to please watch this video to know more about the compassionate side of Kobe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuhR3...
My favourite three lines from this book
Rating
5/5 There are many interesting but less known facts about Kobe mentioned in this book, which will help us to know more about his professional and personal life. The way he deciphered his contemporary players and his role models like Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Muhammad Ali will be helpful for a lot of people in the future. There are so many intricate details about various techniques Kobe used in his game mentioned in this book. All the photos given in this book are exceptional. This is a must-read book if you are a basketball fan.
—————————————————————————
You can also follow me on
Instagram ID - Dasfill | YouTube Channel ID - Dasfill | YouTube Health Channel ID - Dasfill - Health | YouTube Malayalam Channel ID - Dasfill - Malayalam | Threads ID - Dasfill | X ID - Dasfill1 | Snapchat ID - Dasfill | Facebook ID - Dasfill | TikTok ID - Dasfill1
Kobe Bryant was an American professional basketball player who had a great 20 years long career with the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers. This book tells us more about the mamba mentality and his basketball career. He vividly mentions all the techniques he had implemented against various players and teams.
What I learned from this book
1) What does the term Mamba Mentality mean?
Bryant was commonly referred to as the Black Mamba (named after the deadly assassins in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill). He started it as a hashtag on Twitter, which later became viral.
"The mindset isn't about seeking a result- it's more about the process of getting to that result. It's about the journey and the approach. It's a way of life. I do think that it's important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality.
Whether I hear an elite college or NBA player or a Fortune 500 CEO reference the #MambaMentality, I find it very meaningful. When I see people talk about finding inspiration in it, it makes all of my hard work, all of the sweat, all of the 3 AM wake-ups feel worth it. It is the ultimate mantra for the competitive spirit."
2) What was the secret behind Kobe Bryant’s success?
Kobe mentions all the secrets behind his success in this book. The most important reason for his success was his hard work right from his childhood. We can see Kobe and his friends mentioning the importance of hard work in multiple parts of this book
"As a kid, I would work tirelessly on adding elements to my game. I would see something I liked in person or on film, go practice it immediately, practice it more the next day, and then go out and use it. By the time I reached the league, I had a short learning curve. I could see something, download it, and have it down pat."
"One of the main takeaways was that you have to work hard in the dark to shine in the light. Meaning: It takes a lot of work to be successful."
"If I wanted to implement something new into my game, I'd see it and try incorporating it immediately. I wasn't scared of missing, looking bad, or being embarrassed. That's because I always kept the end result, the long game, in my mind. I always focused on the fact that I had to try something to get it, and once I got it, I'd have another tool in my arsenal. If the price was a lot of work and a few missed shots, I was OK with that."
"One of the qualities that have made Kobe so successful, and always will, is his attention to detail. He always used to tell us: if you want to be a better player, you have to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more"
3) Role of Coaches in a sportspersons life
Kobe mentions all the coaches who helped him become a successful player and tells us the importance of coaches in a player's life.
"Good coaches, however, teach you how to think and arm you with the fundamental tools necessary to execute properly. Good coaches tell you where the fish are, great coaches teach you how to find them."
4) What Kobe’s team mates has to tell about him?
Kobe was not only a good friend but also a great leader and mentor to his teammates.
“He brought the best out of me as a basketball player, and he made me a stronger person, too. Our time was truly invaluable.” - Paul Gasol (Kobe’s teammate)
5) How Kobe was able to tackle his injuries?
Kobe had to face several severe injuries in his career. But he was able to overcome injuries and come back strongly. Everybody thought it was the end of his career when he had a severe Achilles injury in 2013. But he bounced back from it as a stronger player.
"I was not going to let an injury dictate my retirement; I was going to dictate my retirement. That's when I decided I had to claim that mountain."
6) Kobe knew what exactly he wanted and how exactly he could get it
In 2008 Kobe wanted his next signature sneaker to be a low top. But Nike was not ready to do it. He persuaded Nike to make what he wanted.
"I wanted my next signature sneaker to be a low top. When I told Nike that, at first they said no. I responded, You can't say no. Phil Knight's mantra was 'Listen to the voice of the athlete.' I am the athlete, and I want a low-cut shoe."
7) Why many people love Kobe Bryant so much?
Kobe Bryant was one of the best players that the game of basketball had ever seen. But that is not the only reason why many people love Kobe so much. He was one of the most compassionate sportsperson the world has ever seen. He was credited with granting more than 200 requests for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
"Few people have seen ant another side to Kobe: the man who performed Make-A-Wish requests after almost every home game- and many road games- throughout his career. I got to document a few of those nights when Kobe was there for kids and their families as a different kind of hero- one who understood the profound impact of basketball beyond simply winning and losing. Behind Kobe's relentless determination was a gentle and sober compassion." -(Andrew D. Bernstein (Senior Photographer for the NBA))
I request you to please watch this video to know more about the compassionate side of Kobe.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuhR3...
My favourite three lines from this book
“I had a constant craving, a yearning, to improve and be the best. I never needed any external forces to motivate me.”
“Stick with what works, even if it’s unpopular. The agony of defeat is as low as the joy of winning is high. However, they are the exact the same to me. I am at the gym at the same time after losing 50 games as I am after winning a championship. It doesn't change for me."
“That’s the best advice I can give: listen to your body, and warm up with purpose.”
Rating
5/5 There are many interesting but less known facts about Kobe mentioned in this book, which will help us to know more about his professional and personal life. The way he deciphered his contemporary players and his role models like Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Magic Johnson, and Muhammad Ali will be helpful for a lot of people in the future. There are so many intricate details about various techniques Kobe used in his game mentioned in this book. All the photos given in this book are exceptional. This is a must-read book if you are a basketball fan.
—————————————————————————
You can also follow me on
Instagram ID - Dasfill | YouTube Channel ID - Dasfill | YouTube Health Channel ID - Dasfill - Health | YouTube Malayalam Channel ID - Dasfill - Malayalam | Threads ID - Dasfill | X ID - Dasfill1 | Snapchat ID - Dasfill | Facebook ID - Dasfill | TikTok ID - Dasfill1
November 12, 2018
I love sports and basketball is my favorite, by far. I have always admired Kobe Bryant for his drive and commitment to the game, so I couldn’t wait to read The Mamba Mentality, which is filled with awesome photos throughout his NBA career.
Love him or not, there’s no denying Kobe’s talent as a basketball player. I was able to see him play in his final season (2015-2016), and since he retired, I have also admired the variety of ventures he’s continued to pursue. Whether or not you’re an athlete, there are principles of embodying the “mamba mentality” that can be applied to all facets of life.
”The mindset isn’t about seeking a result—it’s more about the process of getting to that result. It’s about the journey and the approach. It’s a way of life. I do think it’s important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality.”
While I enjoyed Kobe’s take on competing against numerous other NBA players throughout his career, the parts of The Mamba Mentality I enjoyed most were those that focused on his dedication to the craft of basketball, along with his determination, motivation, and consistent discipline.
”What I’m saying is greatness isn’t easy to achieve. It requires a lot of time, a lot of sacrifices. It requires tough choices. It requires your loved ones to sacrifice, too, so you have to have an understanding circle of family and friends. People don’t always understand just how much effort from how many people goes into one person chasing a dream to be great.”
Love him or not, there’s no denying Kobe’s talent as a basketball player. I was able to see him play in his final season (2015-2016), and since he retired, I have also admired the variety of ventures he’s continued to pursue. Whether or not you’re an athlete, there are principles of embodying the “mamba mentality” that can be applied to all facets of life.
”The mindset isn’t about seeking a result—it’s more about the process of getting to that result. It’s about the journey and the approach. It’s a way of life. I do think it’s important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality.”
While I enjoyed Kobe’s take on competing against numerous other NBA players throughout his career, the parts of The Mamba Mentality I enjoyed most were those that focused on his dedication to the craft of basketball, along with his determination, motivation, and consistent discipline.
”What I’m saying is greatness isn’t easy to achieve. It requires a lot of time, a lot of sacrifices. It requires tough choices. It requires your loved ones to sacrifice, too, so you have to have an understanding circle of family and friends. People don’t always understand just how much effort from how many people goes into one person chasing a dream to be great.”
July 28, 2022
I went from watching what was there to watching for what was missing and should have been there. I went from watching what happened to what could have and should have happened.
I needed inspiration, a private pep talk too, and so I turned to one of my idols and he as he always did, he delivered. This is a wonderful book by Kobe. It five-star showcases his talent, his success, his achievements, his intelligence, his range.
The parts about playing with specific people, little snippets like Rodman knew how to grab your shirt so the refs couldn't see -- are fun and interesting, especially because all of the photographs (I read it on my e-reader) are of breathtaking quality. So you can see him in midair and with the greatest players he played and it's just beautiful. Basketball has things in common with ballet -- footwork, extension, precision of movement -- and you can really see that in the photos.
The parts where he wrote about his family are moving and admirable. While reading this I watched his memorial again because who could take it all in live so close to his death. It's a beautiful tribute and with the passage of time I'm in awe Vanessa put it together so quickly and perfectly. So much love and dedication in that family; that too is inspiring.
It's a shift that when I manage it has been very helpful to me, going from watching what happened to what could have and should have happened
💖 Mamba
I needed inspiration, a private pep talk too, and so I turned to one of my idols and he as he always did, he delivered. This is a wonderful book by Kobe. It five-star showcases his talent, his success, his achievements, his intelligence, his range.
The parts about playing with specific people, little snippets like Rodman knew how to grab your shirt so the refs couldn't see -- are fun and interesting, especially because all of the photographs (I read it on my e-reader) are of breathtaking quality. So you can see him in midair and with the greatest players he played and it's just beautiful. Basketball has things in common with ballet -- footwork, extension, precision of movement -- and you can really see that in the photos.
The parts where he wrote about his family are moving and admirable. While reading this I watched his memorial again because who could take it all in live so close to his death. It's a beautiful tribute and with the passage of time I'm in awe Vanessa put it together so quickly and perfectly. So much love and dedication in that family; that too is inspiring.
It's a shift that when I manage it has been very helpful to me, going from watching what happened to what could have and should have happened
💖 Mamba
February 3, 2020
"If you really want to be great at something, you have to truly care about it. If you want to be great in a particular area, you have to obsess over it. A lot of people say they want to be great, but they’re not willing to make the sacrifices necessary to achieve greatness. They have other concerns, whether important or not, and they spread themselves out. That’s totally fine. After all, greatness is not for everybody."
March 15, 2024
KB tells you how he played the game - what made him great - what he had to work on to get better - the drive to be even better after winning. If you know anyone trying to excel in any field this book will help them 'strike' hard and fast as they play to win. RIP Kobe - thanks for all the memories.
Read
April 12, 2019A recurring theme in this amazing book is that the mental game is just as important as the actual game. Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest basketball players to step foot in the NBA, shows the reader the Mamba Mentality. The mentality of going into a game thinking,"I'm scoring on anyone who guards me" gave Kobe an edge over his opponents. Kobe's will to get to the gym everyday before anyone else gave him an advantage. Kobe, as a rookie, came into to the league cocky. As Kobe matured, he became confident. The slight difference between cocky and confident is what differs good players from great ones. Great players win the mental game as well as the physical game.
Part 2:
Kobe Bryant has arguably the best work ethic the league has ever seen, he gets to gym at 3 am every day, he makes 1000 shots every day, and he dominates everyday. Kobe had the "grit", a trait that can't be taught, to keep fighting up until his final game of his career. Kobe brought the Mamba Mentality night in and night out, outworking every opponent he faces, even at the age of 38 he scored a record-breaking 60 points, which a lot of good players can't achieve in their prime. "Diligence, confidence and style" is what made Kobe one of the all time greats.
Part 2:
Kobe Bryant has arguably the best work ethic the league has ever seen, he gets to gym at 3 am every day, he makes 1000 shots every day, and he dominates everyday. Kobe had the "grit", a trait that can't be taught, to keep fighting up until his final game of his career. Kobe brought the Mamba Mentality night in and night out, outworking every opponent he faces, even at the age of 38 he scored a record-breaking 60 points, which a lot of good players can't achieve in their prime. "Diligence, confidence and style" is what made Kobe one of the all time greats.
October 13, 2019
Kobe explains his style of play and his attention to detail. He's not only a fierce competitor but a lifelong student of the game. He practiced, planned, prepared for every move he made, as well as every teammate and competitor.
Great sports-players, like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Kobe Bryant completely give themselves to their game, their sport, and every aspect it involves.
Very interesting and readable book.
PS. The pictures are excellent!
PSS. Kobe is a great reader and a member of GR. He’s quite the intellectual!
Great sports-players, like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Kobe Bryant completely give themselves to their game, their sport, and every aspect it involves.
Very interesting and readable book.
PS. The pictures are excellent!
PSS. Kobe is a great reader and a member of GR. He’s quite the intellectual!
Want to read
January 27, 2020this news is unbearably sad. you didn’t need to watch basketball to see that kobe bryant was a great human being. his daughter was the future of women’s basketball. prayers to his family, and to all the other families affected by the crash.
February 18, 2024
5/5 po zastanowieniu czy zostawić 4,5 czy 5, cudowne to było 🥺 oceniam tak wysoko bo ta prawdziwość wybrzmiewająca z tej książki, jego mentalność po prostu… czytałam to z takim wzruszem w sercu mimo, że wcześniej nie śledziłam w ogóle jego kariery. I teraz mam ochotę to wszystko nadrobić.
December 25, 2018
I enjoyed watching Kobe play basketball. I picked this up because I was curious what he had to say about the “Mamba Mentality.” This book was not a normal sportsball player memoir. It’s a picture book with some writing about some of the players and coaches Bryant experienced in his 20 years as a professional. Enjoyed this but can’t give it more than 3 stars because I was hoping for something more than just some pics and a sprinking of Bryant’s wisdom. Upon further reflection, this is what I should have expected since Bryant is one of the more private bball players out there.
“The Mamba Mentality. Initially, I thought the phrase, “Mamba Mentality” was just a catchy hashtag that I’d start on Twitter. Something witty and memorable. But it took off from there and came to symbolize much more. The mindset isn’t about seeking a result—it’s more about the process of getting to that result. It’s about the journey and the approach. It’s a way of life. I do think that it’s important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality. Whether I hear an elite college of NBA player or a Fortune 500 CEO reference the #MambaMentality, I find it very meaningful. When I see people talk about finding inspiration in it, it makes all of my hard work, all of the sweat, all of the 3AM wakeups feel worth it. That’s why I put together this book. All these pages incorporate lessons—not just lessons on basketball, but also on the Mamba Mentality.” – p. 93
“A Big Shot Is Just Another Shot. People make a huge deal out of clutch shots. Thing is, it’s just one shot. If you make a thousand shots a day, it’s just one of a thousand. Once you’re hitting that many, what’s one more? That was my mentality from day one.” – p. 102
“When Fundamentals Are No Longer Fundamental. It’s weird, actually—fundamentals aren’t really fundamental anymore. A lot of players don’t understand the game of the importance of footwork, spacing. It’s to the point where if you know the basics, you have an advantage on the majority of players.” – p. 116
“Dunking Is About Domination. When you dunk the ball, it lets the opposition know your mentality. It lets them know you’re there to humiliate them. It also sets an emotional tone with your teammates. It lets them know you’re going to climb mountains this games and inspires them to want to climb with you.” – p. 133
“Basketball Took Me Everywhere. The game provided me with every opportunity that I ever imagined it would, and along the way I learned an innumerable amount. I’m not just speaking about on the court, either. Without hoops, I would not understand how to create or write, I would not understand human nature, nor would I know how to lead. The game, in essence, taught me the art of storytelling. Without it, I would not have an Emmy, I would not have an Oscar, I would not have creative dreams and visions still to unfold. Yeah, basketball took me everywhere. Now, I’m taking the game everywhere.” – p. 201
“The Mamba Mentality. Initially, I thought the phrase, “Mamba Mentality” was just a catchy hashtag that I’d start on Twitter. Something witty and memorable. But it took off from there and came to symbolize much more. The mindset isn’t about seeking a result—it’s more about the process of getting to that result. It’s about the journey and the approach. It’s a way of life. I do think that it’s important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality. Whether I hear an elite college of NBA player or a Fortune 500 CEO reference the #MambaMentality, I find it very meaningful. When I see people talk about finding inspiration in it, it makes all of my hard work, all of the sweat, all of the 3AM wakeups feel worth it. That’s why I put together this book. All these pages incorporate lessons—not just lessons on basketball, but also on the Mamba Mentality.” – p. 93
“A Big Shot Is Just Another Shot. People make a huge deal out of clutch shots. Thing is, it’s just one shot. If you make a thousand shots a day, it’s just one of a thousand. Once you’re hitting that many, what’s one more? That was my mentality from day one.” – p. 102
“When Fundamentals Are No Longer Fundamental. It’s weird, actually—fundamentals aren’t really fundamental anymore. A lot of players don’t understand the game of the importance of footwork, spacing. It’s to the point where if you know the basics, you have an advantage on the majority of players.” – p. 116
“Dunking Is About Domination. When you dunk the ball, it lets the opposition know your mentality. It lets them know you’re there to humiliate them. It also sets an emotional tone with your teammates. It lets them know you’re going to climb mountains this games and inspires them to want to climb with you.” – p. 133
“Basketball Took Me Everywhere. The game provided me with every opportunity that I ever imagined it would, and along the way I learned an innumerable amount. I’m not just speaking about on the court, either. Without hoops, I would not understand how to create or write, I would not understand human nature, nor would I know how to lead. The game, in essence, taught me the art of storytelling. Without it, I would not have an Emmy, I would not have an Oscar, I would not have creative dreams and visions still to unfold. Yeah, basketball took me everywhere. Now, I’m taking the game everywhere.” – p. 201
October 22, 2020
I absolutely loved this book.
Kobe is a Philly guy and so am I. Also, I am a huge basketball fan who played everyday when I was younger, even in the snows of Pennsylvania.
For a former player and a rabid fan, I completely understood the many nuances Kobe took on his circuitous route to the Hall of Fame. Of, course, I did not focus on the little things like Kobe.
Kobe's talent was broadcast across the world for all to see. This book pulls back the covers of the total process. From scouting talent opponents, analysis of opponents' team tendencies, and a personal physical therapist, it all gave him the edge to stardom. His work ethic was almost unmatched (sorry MJ).
This is more than a basketball book but an outline for success in any field, with minor adaptatios.
We all miss Kobe I highly recommend this fantastic book.
May 11, 2019
Not what I expected when I picked up this book. Short, choppy tidbits from different aspects of Kobe’s on the Court relationships, injuries and training mixed together with tons of photographs. Much different than most sports biographies. Good read for Kobe fans & basketball fans.
January 26, 2020
It was a sad, yet, fitting day to sit down and read this. Kobe is not the greatest basketball player of all-time, but the argument could be made that he was the greatest competitor of all-time. This book allows one to look into the mind of one of the greatest to ever play the game of basketball. His work ethic, leadership, and drive to become the greatest were inspiring. Nothing but respect for the Black Mamba 🐍.
Today is just another reminder of how fragile life is and how we have no room to boast in tomorrow, for it is not promised. One must settle their accounts before the Lord, before The Day comes (Matthew 7:21-27). May this truth give us a great urgency to share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Warning others of the wrath of God against sinners, and proclaiming the love and forgiveness of sins found only in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
Today is just another reminder of how fragile life is and how we have no room to boast in tomorrow, for it is not promised. One must settle their accounts before the Lord, before The Day comes (Matthew 7:21-27). May this truth give us a great urgency to share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Warning others of the wrath of God against sinners, and proclaiming the love and forgiveness of sins found only in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
February 2, 2020
Well... I normally don't read this kind of book. First of all I'm a fiction reader and also prefer thrillers. I bought The Mamba Mentality for my 16 year old son who is an athlete. He loves all sports and is a basketball player. He often gets in his own head and I thought this book would be a great read for him. Once Kobe passed away I wanted to read the book so that my son and I could discuss the book together. Kobe had an amazing drive and did a lot of sacrificing to live the life he did, with the picture this book took me about an hour to read. I definitely recommend it for any athletes or parents of athletes who want to have a healthy discussion.
March 19, 2020
thank you kobe for letting me know how to guard lebron james
EDIT: this is so much different considering his death. this is a book to appreciate the amount of work and effort he put into mastering his craft.
EDIT: this is so much different considering his death. this is a book to appreciate the amount of work and effort he put into mastering his craft.
May 21, 2022
You can try to understand the nuances of basketball while reading the second part or choose to skim over it, it's relatively a simple read-straightforward and present. The photographs included have been beautifully captured.
It's a legend talking about his craft with utmost passion, hoping the reader will take away the valuable virtues that make the great, the-greatest-of-them-all!
It's a legend talking about his craft with utmost passion, hoping the reader will take away the valuable virtues that make the great, the-greatest-of-them-all!
August 3, 2022
Motivating and heartbreaking all at once.
February 1, 2020
Read this a week after Kobe's death. The reaction to Kobe's death has been astonishing. It's just amazing how influential Kobe was in so many people's lives, and how many people loved him. Seeing the crowds in Los Angeles has blown my mind, and I can't of anyone else who is so beloved. It feels like the world stopped operating for the week to honor Kobe, and that feels right to me.
As for the book, it's an incisive look at Kobe's approach to life. His dedication to greatness is unparalleled. He takes advantage of every possible detail to put himself in the best position to win championships. And it worked: 5 Rings!
To me, what makes Kobe special is that he never coasted on his talent. He was talented, sure, but probably not as talented as LeBron, Jordan, or Shaq. But Kobe maximized his talent more than anyone else, and gave everything he had to the game. No stones un-turned, no missed opportunities. And at the end of the day, he'll rest knowing he gave his personal best to not only basketball, but his family, friends, and giving back to the next generation. Kobe inspired millions, myself included, and is one of the most remarkable people ever.
As for the book, it's an incisive look at Kobe's approach to life. His dedication to greatness is unparalleled. He takes advantage of every possible detail to put himself in the best position to win championships. And it worked: 5 Rings!
To me, what makes Kobe special is that he never coasted on his talent. He was talented, sure, but probably not as talented as LeBron, Jordan, or Shaq. But Kobe maximized his talent more than anyone else, and gave everything he had to the game. No stones un-turned, no missed opportunities. And at the end of the day, he'll rest knowing he gave his personal best to not only basketball, but his family, friends, and giving back to the next generation. Kobe inspired millions, myself included, and is one of the most remarkable people ever.
January 3, 2019
Amazing book and so inspirational!! One of my favorite players of all time and muses! 👌🏼💯🙏🏼🙌🏼💪🏼 #mustread #mambamentality
November 16, 2018
A memoir written by Kobe Bryant, one of the greatest masters of the game of basketball. Although, not what I expected to read, I enjoyed reading it and learning more about Kobe and the Mamba Mentality. The memoir starts with a Forward written by his teammate, Pau Gasol, and an Introduction by his coach, Phil Jackson. Meticulously, Kobe describes the game of basketball as a process and as a craft. He gives the reader the chance at a closer look at what he did to prepare for each game, how he gained his skill-set to compensate his talent and his passion for the game. He uses these first pages to also share his knowledge and experience, his wisdom on many aspects of the game. I kept writing down some of the things he wrote in this part of the book and I am sharing them here, at the end of this review.
Then through a number of details, facts and figures, he shares his thoughts and opinion about many of his games that, reflecting back now, Kobe considers milestones in his NBA career. He also shares his thoughts and reactions on several other NBA players he played with or against.
A very enjoyable read! I got to learn new things about Kobe and other NBA players that I didn’t know before. I loved looking at all the pictures included in the book that document crucial moments of Kobe’s career as a basketball player. 🏀 Many of them brought back memories of those games which I used to watch with my family- all big Kobe Bryant fans.
He is indeed a basketball superstar, one of the most resilient, hard-working, intelligent, creative and most passionate basketball players of our time. His Mamba Mentality has become an inspiration not only for many other athletes but people in all walks of life.
If you love sports and enjoyed watching Kobe play, you got to read this book!
Quotes from the book:
1) “If something has worked for other greats before you, and if something is working for you, why change it and embrace a new fad? Stick with what works, even if it’s unpopular.”
2) “If you really want to be great at something, you have to truly care about it.”
3) “People don’t always understand just how much effort from how many people goes into one person chasing a dream to be great.”
4) “You can’t achieve greatness by walking a straight line.”
5) “Listen to your body, and warm up with purpose.”
6) “Pain in one area of your body often stems from an imbalance somewhere else. With that in mind, it’s important to treat the root cause and not the effect.”
7) “ ...you have to work hard in the dark to shine in the light.”
Then through a number of details, facts and figures, he shares his thoughts and opinion about many of his games that, reflecting back now, Kobe considers milestones in his NBA career. He also shares his thoughts and reactions on several other NBA players he played with or against.
A very enjoyable read! I got to learn new things about Kobe and other NBA players that I didn’t know before. I loved looking at all the pictures included in the book that document crucial moments of Kobe’s career as a basketball player. 🏀 Many of them brought back memories of those games which I used to watch with my family- all big Kobe Bryant fans.
He is indeed a basketball superstar, one of the most resilient, hard-working, intelligent, creative and most passionate basketball players of our time. His Mamba Mentality has become an inspiration not only for many other athletes but people in all walks of life.
If you love sports and enjoyed watching Kobe play, you got to read this book!
Quotes from the book:
1) “If something has worked for other greats before you, and if something is working for you, why change it and embrace a new fad? Stick with what works, even if it’s unpopular.”
2) “If you really want to be great at something, you have to truly care about it.”
3) “People don’t always understand just how much effort from how many people goes into one person chasing a dream to be great.”
4) “You can’t achieve greatness by walking a straight line.”
5) “Listen to your body, and warm up with purpose.”
6) “Pain in one area of your body often stems from an imbalance somewhere else. With that in mind, it’s important to treat the root cause and not the effect.”
7) “ ...you have to work hard in the dark to shine in the light.”
April 13, 2020
As the whole world knows, Kobe Bryant may as well be one of the best players in the history of the NBA, and as he passed away a few months ago, this book can really write down the feeling of playing on the court with Kobe and also shows the way he plays.
His crazy work ethic is the main part of this book and it is also the theme. This is a thing that everyone would want to pass on in the Mamba mentality. He will always be the first in the gym and the last out. In the book, it also stated that his former teammate wanted to be the first in the gym so he came at about 5 in the morning. When he went in, he saw that Kobe was sweating a lot and has already made hundreds of shots. This is a type of work ethic that will make you better at something. Practicing again and again...
His crazy work ethic is the main part of this book and it is also the theme. This is a thing that everyone would want to pass on in the Mamba mentality. He will always be the first in the gym and the last out. In the book, it also stated that his former teammate wanted to be the first in the gym so he came at about 5 in the morning. When he went in, he saw that Kobe was sweating a lot and has already made hundreds of shots. This is a type of work ethic that will make you better at something. Practicing again and again...
March 5, 2019
Incredible insights to one of the most dominant athletes the world has ever seen. The book gives out valuable insights into the mind of the one of the greatest who has played the game. Kobe was obsessed about the game and would do everything to dominate it. People called him the next Michael Jordan but he went onto become the one and only Kobe Bryant.
January 26, 2020
Haven't read it yet , but he was a great champion and a fine ambassador from the sports world . The 'star' athletes of today could learn a lot from how he lived his too-brief life . Blessings to the family and friends of this upright man .
November 23, 2018
A must for any NBA fan. A quick read filled with brilliant pictures. Completely surprised by how much I enjoyed it. 🏀🏀🏀
December 29, 2023
Завинаги името на Коби Брайънт ще е свързано с всеотдайността му, и на моменти маниакална любов към баскетбола. За работната му етика се носят легенди.
Коби безпорно има талант, но ако разчиташе само на това надали щеше да има такъв отпечатък върху играта, защото величието изисква много жертви. И ако някой е готов с лека ръка да отхвърли тази книга (или друга свързана с Коби) трябва да кажа, че "съветите" му са насочени точно към подобряването на баскетболните способности, но дисциплината която той проповядва надскача (pun intended) баскетбола. Мамба манталитета е приложим във всяка професия. Манията да си най-добрият в нещо, и да го постигнеш с работа (върху себе си най-вече) е нагона, който тласка човек към величието.
Ако желаете да се четете по-обстойно за гореспоменатите неща, то трябва да се насочите към друга книга. В тази, Коби от първо лице бегло щрихира етиката си, като след това описва всяка личност, без значение треньор, лекар, съотбоник или опонент, и това как те са му помогнали да подобри играта си. Всичко това, е придружено с прекрасни фотографии.
Не намирам думите, с които да финализирам това ревю, затова ще споделя цитат от Коби:
"Най-важното нещо е да опитваш да вдъхновяваш хората, за да могат да бъдат велики във всяко нещо, което правят.“ . Той успя!
Коби безпорно има талант, но ако разчиташе само на това надали щеше да има такъв отпечатък върху играта, защото величието изисква много жертви. И ако някой е готов с лека ръка да отхвърли тази книга (или друга свързана с Коби) трябва да кажа, че "съветите" му са насочени точно към подобряването на баскетболните способности, но дисциплината която той проповядва надскача (pun intended) баскетбола. Мамба манталитета е приложим във всяка професия. Манията да си най-добрият в нещо, и да го постигнеш с работа (върху себе си най-вече) е нагона, който тласка човек към величието.
Ако желаете да се четете по-обстойно за гореспоменатите неща, то трябва да се насочите към друга книга. В тази, Коби от първо лице бегло щрихира етиката си, като след това описва всяка личност, без значение треньор, лекар, съотбоник или опонент, и това как те са му помогнали да подобри играта си. Всичко това, е придружено с прекрасни фотографии.
Не намирам думите, с които да финализирам това ревю, затова ще споделя цитат от Коби:
"Най-важното нещо е да опитваш да вдъхновяваш хората, за да могат да бъдат велики във всяко нещо, което правят.“ . Той успя!
January 27, 2023
Tribute to a great player, person and athlete. This book explains why Kobe was one of the best players of all times. Passion, love, amazing work ethic, team player and competitive mindset. We will always miss you, rest in peace…
March 27, 2019
This book had so much potential. Growing up watching basketball, I am pretty sure everyone can agree that Kobe Bryant is one of the greatest basketball players (and athletes in general). I was looking to get my hands on this book for a very long time, and when I finally got the chance to start reading the book, I was a bit confused. I really was looking forward to understanding how Kobe Bryant approached the game of basketball, how he trained and mentally prepared for the insane matchups he had to go up against on a nightly basis, and just curious to learn about how he went about life in general. However, it was just a book filled with pictures with mere sprinklings of paragraphs or two on certain aspects of his journey. What content there was seemed quite vague and really didn't stick with me as the book jumped around on subject quite a bit. I have read quite a few sports books and I often enjoy the subject understanding how professional athletes "tick" but I really was just left more confused and underwhelmed. It, however, was great to see the pictures supplement the stories Kobe Bryant shared, but for a book that built so much hype to give us all the inside look of the "mamba mentality". Perhaps the book should be instead geared towards folks who are not consistent readers or are looking to pick up and finish a book in the period of a couple of hours.
January 22, 2022
First of all, I know very little about basketball and, after this book, I can truly say that my knowledge of the game remains fairly the same.
What changed though, is my understanding of great sportspersons and the level of dedication and obsession for the craft you need to put in, in order to become your best version.
Above all, Kobe was a true master at strengthening his mind, more than his body, as the body failed him many times, but never his mind.
These are some of the quotes I took from the book, which I hope gives you a glimpse into this man’s unshakeable mindset:
1. If you really want to be great at something, you have to truly care about it. If you want to be great in a particular area, you have to obsess over it. A lot of people say they want to be great, but they’re not willing to make the sacrifices necessary to achive greatness. They have other concerns, whether important or not, and they spread themselves out. That’s totally fine. After all, greatness is not for everybody.
2. You have to work hard in the dark to shine in the light.
3. The OG greats won’t hang around you if you don’t display the same passion as they do. They won’t share their time and memories with you if you don’t display the same effort and drive for excellence that they did.
#MambaMentality
What changed though, is my understanding of great sportspersons and the level of dedication and obsession for the craft you need to put in, in order to become your best version.
Above all, Kobe was a true master at strengthening his mind, more than his body, as the body failed him many times, but never his mind.
These are some of the quotes I took from the book, which I hope gives you a glimpse into this man’s unshakeable mindset:
1. If you really want to be great at something, you have to truly care about it. If you want to be great in a particular area, you have to obsess over it. A lot of people say they want to be great, but they’re not willing to make the sacrifices necessary to achive greatness. They have other concerns, whether important or not, and they spread themselves out. That’s totally fine. After all, greatness is not for everybody.
2. You have to work hard in the dark to shine in the light.
3. The OG greats won’t hang around you if you don’t display the same passion as they do. They won’t share their time and memories with you if you don’t display the same effort and drive for excellence that they did.
#MambaMentality
January 29, 2021
This book helped me dive into the mind of one of the most celebrated athletes of basketball. Whether it be related to a game preparation, spending time in the off season, extremely competitive play off series or hardships he faced off the court with controversies and injuries - this book provides great insights on how the Mamba met challenges head on and carved a niche for himself, leaving behind a cherished legacy. The book is a quick read and really helps one understand the amount of perseverance and attention to detail one needs to give to be at the pinnacle of whatever one does.
April 7, 2020
Олон жил фантазигаа чимсэн одынхоо бичсэн номыг уншлаа. Сагс сонирхдог, тоглодог, #Кобигийн арга барилыг өөртөө суулгая гэсэн хүн бүрт зориулсан ном байна. Хэрхэн өдрөө эхэлдэг, яаж бэлтгэл хийдэг, тоглолтын дараа хэрхэн зурагнууд дээр ажиллаж өөрийн алдааг тодорхойлдог, түүнийгээ засахыг тулд хэрхэн бэлтгэл хийдэг, бусдаас ямар ямар техникийг суралцсан, 20 жил талбайд байх хугацаандаа тамирчидтай хэрхэн өрсөлдөж, хамтарч байснаа цөөн үгэнд тодорхой бичжээ. #TheMambaMentality
It is book for person who wants to learn what Kobe was like while he was playing and what he sacrificed and learnt from others. Every details are included.
It is book for person who wants to learn what Kobe was like while he was playing and what he sacrificed and learnt from others. Every details are included.
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