“Kobe: The Making of a Legend” – CNN Docuseries Opens with Bryant’s Formative Years

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CNN’s new docuseries, “Kobe: The Making of a Legend,” sets out to explore the multifaceted life of basketball icon Kobe Bryant, starting with his formative years. The first episode traces Bryant’s unusual upbringing, from his childhood in Italy, where his father played professional basketball, to his meteoric rise in the NBA.

While his father’s influence is undeniable, the premiere episode goes beyond the typical sports narrative. It examines the family dynamics, the early sparks of competitive fire, and the underlying tensions that shaped young Kobe. The move to Los Angeles at age 18 to join the Lakers, and the beginning of his relationship with Vanessa Laine, add further dimensions to the story.

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The series benefits from candid interviews with former coaches, teammates, and family friends. These voices provide a rich tapestry of perspectives, painting a portrait of a young man driven by ambition and a relentless desire to excel. However, the narrative doesn’t shy away from the conflicts and strained relationships that emerged as Kobe’s career took off, hinting at the complicated personal life that would later become public knowledge.

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What sets this documentary apart is its ambition to understand Kobe beyond the basketball court. It aims to explore his post-NBA aspirations as a storyteller and his role as a father, promising a comprehensive look at the man behind the legend. The first episode lays the groundwork, offering us a compelling look into the early influences that shaped one of basketball’s most enigmatic figures.

“Kobe: The Making of a Legend” premieres Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 9:00 PM on CNN.