Kobe Bryant Admits to Being ‘Afraid’ of What Life Will Be Like After Basketball

Kobe Bryant may have signed a two-year contract extension worth $48.5 million with the Los Angeles Lakers last November, but you better believe he's already thinking about what life will be like once he retires. 

According to ESPN.com, the 18-year-veteran isn't exactly comfortable contemplating the great unknown that accompanies life after basketball: 

I'm afraid, too. You really have to lean on muses and mentors going forward, just as I did as a kid. It's about having that next wave of things, which is scary as hell, but it's fun at the same time.

On Friday, Bryant spoke openly about what awaits him after a legendary career on the hardwood while promoting his upcoming documentary, Kobe Bryant's Muse, which will air on Showtime in November. 



However, if Kobe's investment history is any indication, he will have a fruitful life as a businessman upon retiring. 

In March, it was announced that Bryant put up millions of dollars for a sizable share in the sports drink BodyArmor. 

Forbes' Kurt Badenhausen provided the details: 

The first investment for Kobe Inc. is in emerging sports drink BodyArmor. Bryant categorized his investment as “substantial” and says, “I put my skin in the game.” Bryant will sit on the board of directors and own more than 10% of the company, according to one source familiar with the negotiations.

Forbes added: "His deals with Turkish Air, Lenovo, Hublot, Nike and Panini for merchandise are worth more than $30 million annually." In 2013-14, he had the third-most popular jersey, behind only LeBron James and Kevin Durant.

After he was limited to just six appearances (the fewest of his career) during the 2013-14 season due to Achilles rehabilitation and a fracture to his left tibial plateau, Bryant appears to be looking forward to a comeback season with a new c...

About the Author