How Kobe Bryant became one of the NBA's all-time greatest players and an almost mythical figure in the process

• Kobe Bryant died three years ago today, on January 26, 2020, leaving behind a legacy as an all-time great NBA player and sports icon.
• Bryant immediately won over many fans early in his NBA career by becoming a must-watch player on Los Angeles Lakers teams that dominated the league.
• Beyond his success on the court, Bryant was elevated to new heights with his "Black Mamba" persona and an almost mythological reputation as a hard worker and leader.

A select few in the sports world are so well-known to go by one name. Kobe was one of them.