The world was stunned when basketball legend Kobe Bryant tragically passed away in 2020. But what many people don’t know is just how vast and complex his financial legacy is.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down Kobe Bryant’s net worth, how it grew over time, and what his estate looks like today.
Kobe Bryant’s Net Worth in 2020
At the time of his passing, Kobe Bryant’s net worth was estimated at $600 million (£470 million).
This figure wasn’t just the result of his NBA salary. It also included endorsement deals, smart business investments, and even his Oscar-winning media company.
How Did Kobe Bryant Build His Wealth?
1. NBA Salary Earnings
Kobe spent 20 seasons with the Lakers. His career spanned from 1996 to 2016, during which he became one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
💸 He earned:
- $323 million in career salary
- Up to $30 million in a single season
That’s a rare figure even among NBA stars.
2. Lucrative Endorsement Deals
Kobe was a global icon. Brands loved him.
His endorsement partners included:
- Nike
- Sprite
- McDonald’s
- Turkish Airlines
- Lenovo
His Nike deal alone was worth over $10 million per year. Even after retirement, Nike continued to sell Kobe-branded products globally.
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3. Investments and Business Ventures
One of the smartest moves Kobe made was becoming an investor.
In 2013, he co-founded Bryant Stibel, a venture capital firm. The firm invested in:
- Alibaba
- The Honest Company
- Dell
By 2020, Bryant Stibel managed over $2 billion in assets.
Kobe also earned a $200 million windfall from his early investment in BodyArmor, which Coca-Cola later acquired.
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4. Media and Creative Projects
Kobe launched Granity Studios, a multimedia content company focused on storytelling. He wrote books, produced documentaries, and even won an Oscar for “Dear Basketball”.
These projects further added to his net worth and solidified his image beyond the basketball court.
What Happened to Kobe Bryant’s Estate After His Death?
Source: Deposit Photos
After his tragic death, Kobe’s estate was passed on to his wife, Vanessa Bryant, and their children.
Vanessa took a firm hold of Kobe’s financial legacy:
- Ended the Nike deal in 2021 but later renegotiated it in 2023
- Managed ongoing lawsuits and trademarks
- Continued charitable work through the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation
🏡 His estate includes luxury homes, rare cars, business stakes, and ongoing royalties from NBA media rights.
Kobe’s Most Valuable Assets in 2020
| Asset Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| NBA Salary | $323M |
| Endorsements | $280M |
| BodyArmor Shares | $200M |
| Bryant Stibel VC | $100M+ |
| Real Estate | $25M |
| Granity Studios | $20M |
| Cars & Jewellery | $5M |
💡 Note: These figures are estimates from sources like Forbes and Celebrity Net Worth.
How His Wealth Is Managed Today
Vanessa Bryant and family advisors work closely with wealth managers and lawyers to protect and grow Kobe’s estate.
They’ve set up trusts and are actively involved in licensing and charity work. The estate continues to earn millions yearly through:
- Merchandise sales
- NBA royalties
- Book and media projects
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Kobe’s Legacy: More Than Money
Kobe was known for his “Mamba Mentality” — a philosophy of relentless drive and improvement. That mindset also applied to his financial decisions.
His investments, media work, and focus on legacy show a thoughtful, long-term approach to wealth building.
🎯 He didn’t just want to be rich — he wanted to create lasting value.
What Is the Kobe Bryant Estate Worth Today?
As of 2025, estimates suggest Kobe Bryant’s estate is worth over $680 million, thanks to smart management, new licensing deals, and investment growth.
It remains one of the most valuable estates in sports history.
Final Thoughts: Why Kobe’s Net Worth Still Matters
Kobe Bryant was more than an athlete. He was a businessman, a storyteller, and a visionary.
His financial legacy shows what’s possible when passion meets purpose — and planning.
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