Bryant’s “Dear Basketball” is a Powerful Tribute
Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times
The world is still mourning the great loss of life that took place in this week’s helicopter accident. Kobe and Gianna Bryant, along with seven others, tragically perished in Calabasas on Sunday. In the aftermath of the accident, Kobe Bryant’s short film “Dear Basketball” sends an emotional message.


Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times
The Poem
“Dear Basketball” began as a poem, written by Kobe Bryant as he approached the final stages of his career in 2015. As a means to announce his retirement, the poem describes how Bryant’s childhood passion evolved into his phenomenal career. Bryant describes “falling in love” with the game of basketball, and giving his “mind and body, spirit and soul.”


Photo Credit: Los Angeles Times
The Short Film
In 2017, Disney legend Glen Keane helped transform “Dear Basketball” into a powerful, hand-drawn, animated short film. Scored by John Williams, this film serves as Bryant’s farewell to his lifelong passion. After his untimely passing, his message strikes an even more devastating chord. “This season is all I have left to give,” Bryant explains. “My body knows it’s time to say goodbye.”
Accolades


Photo Credit: Good Morning America
“Dear Basketball” won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 2017, which was a first for Bryant as well as Keane. After the tragic event on Sunday, Keane tweeted the following:
Words fail us… but we will never forget such a blessing. #KobeBryant pic.twitter.com/EtQpUz9Cua
— Glen Keane (@GlenKeanePrd) January 26, 2020
Kobe Bryant’s Goodbye
The final moments of “Dear Basketball” convey how difficult of a decision retirement was for Kobe Bryant. “We have given each other all that we have,” Bryant states, addressing his 20-season career. As the film concludes, Bryant’s final line delivers the words: “Love you always, Kobe.” You can watch “Dear Basketball” here and below.
https://vimeo.com/387543017
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