The Rise

The Rise by Mike Sielski is an evocative and insightful chronicle that delves into the early life of Kobe Bryant, one of basketball’s most enigmatic legends. This compelling narrative captures the essence of Kobe's journey from his childhood in Philadelphia to his formative years in Europe and ultimately to his teenage basketball stardom in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania.

Kobe Bryant's untimely death in January 2020 sent shockwaves through the worlds of sport and celebrity alike, but it also revealed the profound impact he had across the globe. By providing a thorough examination of Kobe’s lesser-known early years, The Rise promises to offer a unique and unparalleled insight into the man who would become an icon.

In The Rise, readers will uncover the modest beginnings on the cracked basketball courts of Philadelphia during the 1960s and 70s, where Kobe’s father, Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, carved out his own impressive career in playground, college, and professional basketball. The narrative then transitions to the grandeur and solitude of Europe, where young Kobe spent his formative years honing his skills and understanding the game from a different cultural perspective. The journey culminates in the affluent suburbs of Lower Merion, Pennsylvania, where Kobe's legendary status began to take shape as he led his high school team to a state championship, an extraordinary feat for a team with just one star player.

The book reaches its climax with the 1996 NBA Draft, when Kobe's lifelong aspiration of playing professional basketball became a reality upon being acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers. This pivotal moment established the foundation for his illustrious career and enduring legacy.

What sets The Rise apart from other accounts of Kobe Bryant’s life is Mike Sielski's access to a trove of never-before-released interviews conducted during Kobe’s senior year of high school and early days in the NBA. These invaluable recordings, preserved for over twenty-five years, provide a rare glimpse into Kobe's teenage psyche, revealing his thoughts, dreams, and goals in his own words. This treasure trove of material uncovers stories and insights that have remained untold until now.

Ultimately, this book transcends the genre of a traditional sports biography. It is an in-depth exploration of the making of a global icon and examines how his early experiences and relationships shaped him on his path to greatness. The Rise is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the true essence of Kobe Bryant before he became a basketball legend.