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The Mamba Mentality: How I Play Kindle Edition

4.8 out of 5 stars 29,494 ratings

The Mamba Mentality: How I Play is Kobe Bryant’s personal perspective of his life and career on the basketball court and his exceptional, insightful style of playing the game—a fitting legacy from the late Los Angeles Laker superstar.

In the wake of his retirement from professional basketball, Kobe “The Black Mamba” Bryant decided to share his vast knowledge and understanding of the game to take readers on an unprecedented journey to the core of the legendary “Mamba mentality.” Citing an obligation and an opportunity to teach young players, hardcore fans, and devoted students of the game how to play it “the right way,”
The Mamba Mentality takes us inside the mind of one of the most intelligent, analytical, and creative basketball players ever.

In his own words, Bryant reveals his famously detailed approach and the steps he took to prepare mentally and physically to not just succeed at the game, but to excel. Readers will learn how Bryant studied an opponent, how he channeled his passion for the game, how he played through injuries. They’ll also get fascinating granular detail as he breaks down specific plays and match-ups from throughout his career.

Bryant’s detailed accounts are paired with stunning photographs by the Hall of Fame photographer Andrew D. Bernstein. Bernstein, long the Lakers and NBA official photographer, captured Bryant’s very first NBA photo in 1996 and his last in 2016—and hundreds of thousands in between, the record of a unique, twenty-year relationship between one athlete and one photographer.

The combination of Bryant’s narrative and Bernstein’s photos make
The Mamba Mentality an unprecedented look behind the curtain at the career of one of the world’s most celebrated and fascinating athletes.

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Popular Highlights in this book

From the Publisher

The Mamba Mentality by Kobe Bryant

“When it came to basketball, I had no fear.” —Kobe Bryant

photo by Andrew D. Bernstein

photo by Andrew D. Bernstein

photo by Andrew D. Bernstein

photo by Andrew D. Bernstein

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Warning: Be prepared for an adventure in high-level basketball … This book is a window into the mind of someone who mastered the game.” ―Phil Jackson

“Kobe knew that to be the best you need a different approach from everyone else … Enjoy this magnificent book. I have no doubt that you will be inspired.” ―Pau Gasol

“Revealing...beautifully captured...candid.” ―
Los Angeles Times

“The future NBA Hall of Famer explores his process and craft … From training to practice to recovery to mental preparation to highly technical descriptions of his mechanics―and those of his opponents―he delves into it all. The book will appeal to die-hard basketball fans intrigued by one of the game’s brightest minds … An ideal gift for the Lakers fan in the house.” ―
Kirkus Reviews

“Bryant is inarguably among the top 20 basketball players of all time: five-time champion, 18-time all-star, the list goes on. But overshadowing all the achievement is his legendary work ethic, drive, and devotion to the craft of basketball … Bryant offers plenty of anecdotes about teammates and opponents. What sets this book apart from the competition is Bernstein’s photography. It’s wonderful.” ―
Booklist (starred review)

"The next best thing to a courtside seat watching Bryant drive to the basket during his glory days with the L.A. Lakers."
―USA Today

"Revealing, candid, inspirational."
―Amazon Book Review

"This book will inspire you to live a "Mamba Mentality" way of life moving forward. The mindset of not relying on others for your own success, taking responsibility for your actions, moving according to the plan, and of course, living life to the fullest. All of this while inspiring others to push themselves to their limit as well."―Enstars

"Bryant has an incredibly detailed approach to preparation...not just a physical approach; it's also mental, [and it] can be applied outside of the game...Inspiring, informative, and entertaining." ―Chris Schleup, The Amazon Book Review

"Whether someone is trying to become the next NBA great or achieve some sort of semblance of success, Bryant’s dedication to being a cut above the rest is sure to help encourage readers to meet their own goals."
―L.A. Taco

"Perfect to help the aspiring basketball player in your life learn how to excel both mentally and physically."
―ESPN

About the Author

Kobe Bryant (1978-2020) was one of the most accomplished and celebrated athletes of all time. Over the course of his twenty-year career―all played with the Los Angeles Lakers―he won five NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, eighteen All-Star selections, and four All-Star Game MVP awards, among many other achievements before retiring in 2016.

In 2018, Bryant won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film as writer of
Dear Basketball, which he also narrated. He was the first African American to win the award as well as the first former professional athlete to be nominated and win an Oscar in any category.

As a philanthropist, Bryant founded the Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation (KVBFF) and the Kobe Bryant China Fund, organizations dedicated to providing resources for educational, social, and sports programs to improve the lives of children and families in need, and encourage cultural exchanges between Chinese and U. S. middle school children. He was also an official ambassador for After-School All-Stars (ASAS), a nonprofit organization that offers after-school programs to low-income children in more than a dozen U. S. cities.

With entrepreneur Jeff Stibel, Bryant co-founded Bryant Stibel, a company designed to offer businesses specializing in technology, media, and data strategies, capital, and operational support.

Throughout his post-professional basketball career, Bryant claimed he’d never been beaten one-on-one.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07DC3WRKT
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ MCD (October 23, 2018)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 23, 2018
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 224.9 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 236 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.8 out of 5 stars 29,494 ratings

About the author

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Kobe Bryant
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Kobe Bryant is an Academy Award winner, New York Times best-selling author and CEO of Granity Studios, a multi-media content creation company. He spends every day focused on creating stories that inspire the next generation of athletes to be the best versions of themselves. In a previous life, Kobe was a five-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, NBA MVP, and two-time Olympic gold medalist. He hopes to share what he’s learned with young athletes around the world.

Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
29,494 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book inspirational, providing insight into a champion's mindset and teaching valuable life lessons. The book features beautiful eye-popping images and straight-to-the-point writing, making it a great gift for sports fans. Customers consider it a must-have for athletes of all sports, praising Kobe's exceptional talent as one of the greatest players of all time. The physical condition of the book receives mixed reviews, with several customers reporting damaged corners and bent pages.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

272 customers mention "Inspirational content"272 positive0 negative

Customers find the book inspirational, with many noting it teaches valuable life lessons and motivational advice. One customer specifically mentions how it provides insight into Kobe's mindset, while another highlights how hard work truly pays off.

"...Bryant’s insights are straightforward yet profound, and the lessons he shares about focus, discipline, and excellence are universally applicable...." Read more

"The book was great, wonderful pictures & message, my grandson loves Kobe, the book hit the spot for him," Read more

"I bought this book for inspiration, motivation and mostly self-discipline. Who better to learn that from than Kobe?..." Read more

"...It was very revealing and tough to put down! It also has some great lessons for life, as you can apply a lot of his mental approach and work ethic..." Read more

219 customers mention "Pictures"207 positive12 negative

Customers appreciate the pictures in the book, describing them as beautiful and eye-popping, with one customer highlighting the amazing photos that capture major dates.

"...Combined with the book’s striking black design, it felt like a journey into his psyche and a deeper understanding of greatness...." Read more

"The book was great, wonderful pictures & message, my grandson loves Kobe, the book hit the spot for him," Read more

"Great book a lot of pictures and a very very quick read but tons of quality life quotes" Read more

"...MJ is sharing his thoughts about the game amidst beautiful and captivating images...." Read more

68 customers mention "Writing quality"48 positive20 negative

Customers appreciate the writing style of the book, describing it as straight to the point and very well written, making it a simple read.

"...The writing is clear, concise, and devoid of unnecessary embellishments, making it all the more impactful...." Read more

"...The book was very well written, I was never not engaged in the reading, and in my opinion the coolest part was that i was like Kobe was telling..." Read more

"This is a large book, not necessarily easy to read “by the pool”!..." Read more

"This is a very high-quality book with a lot of excellent pictures, text, and is well put together...." Read more

67 customers mention "Value for money"62 positive5 negative

Customers find the book to be worth the money, with several noting it's worth the wait and one mentioning it's high quality for the price.

"...take back out and re-read from time to time and it's worth having on your shelf even if you are not a big Kobe Bryant fan. Highly recommend!!" Read more

"...For the price, this is a beautiful coffee table book or one for your collection...." Read more

"...players but it is beautifully put together and is worth owning for any Kobe fan...." Read more

"I always wanted this book. I am very happy I was able to get it at a great price." Read more

49 customers mention "Gift value"49 positive0 negative

Customers find the book makes a great gift, particularly for sports fans, with one customer mentioning it was their favorite Christmas present.

"...and motivational power of this work; it felt like an unexpected yet perfect gift, filled with personal meaning...." Read more

"Perfect gift for someone who loves this sport and is a fan of his." Read more

"...It is an excellent gift for any basketball fan. I would highly recommend." Read more

"My son loves basketball and what perfect gift to give is. Knowledge from the greatest. The book is heavy. Pictures look amazing...." Read more

31 customers mention "Talent"31 positive0 negative

Customers praise Kobe's exceptional talent and consider him one of the greatest players of all time.

"...and inspiring glimpse into the mindset of one of the greatest athletes of all time...." Read more

"Cool book to read and teaches a lot about basketball and other players in the NBA. Nice pictures and a lot of info about playing basketball." Read more

"...I LIKE the pictures and variety of players he matched. All Stars* I LEAST liked the lack of details and pages...." Read more

"...level hearing him breakdown the thoughts and inspirations behind those legendary performances." Read more

29 customers mention "Influence of young athletes"29 positive0 negative

Customers find the book inspirational for young athletes, particularly basketball players, and consider it a must-have for athletes of all sports.

"...In conclusion this book is perfect for young athletes that need that tiny bit of inspiration, motivation or Kobes little tips to become a winner." Read more

"I highly recommend this book. It’s great if you have a basketball player in your family each section is brief and really interesting...." Read more

"Just as described, the book outline is perfect for teenagers whose interest in reading has just begun" Read more

"Good book for young people." Read more

52 customers mention "Book damage"3 positive49 negative

Customers report significant physical damage to the book, with pages ripped and bent, corners damaged, and the inner cover torn.

"...I just wish they packed the book better as one of the corners was extremely crumpled… sigh 😞..." Read more

"The cover came in bad shape, the corners are bent and the laminate is peeling off in multiple spots." Read more

"The book has demaged hardcover and i am disappointed of that defect" Read more

"Just got this today have a nice big scratch on the book and a bunch of sticky stuff in the back" Read more

Banged Up
4 out of 5 stars
Banged Up
I bought this book for my husband for Christmas. He thoroughly enjoyed the book. However, I was displeased when I unboxed the book and found the spine damaged during delivery.
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024
    "The Mamba Mentality: How I Play" by Kobe Bryant offers an immersive and inspiring glimpse into the mindset of one of the greatest athletes of all time. From the moment I opened the book, I was struck by the tactile experience of the pages—at first, I thought my fingerprints were staining them, but they quickly faded. This unique texture created an almost symbolic connection, as though each page I touched left an impression, allowing Kobe’s mentality to intertwine with my own. Combined with the book’s striking black design, it felt like a journey into his psyche and a deeper understanding of greatness.

    The writing is clear, concise, and devoid of unnecessary embellishments, making it all the more impactful. Bryant’s insights are straightforward yet profound, and the lessons he shares about focus, discipline, and excellence are universally applicable. While the latter portion of the book leans more heavily into basketball techniques and specifics—which may not resonate as much with non-players—it remains an excellent resource for enthusiasts and fans of the sport.

    I initially purchased this book as a gift for my boyfriend, an avid basketball fan, and it deeply resonated with him. His reaction highlighted the emotional and motivational power of this work; it felt like an unexpected yet perfect gift, filled with personal meaning.

    My decision to read this book was influenced by its inclusion on a recommended reading list by Ryan Holiday, a bestselling author known for his well-curated selections. As with other books on Holiday’s lists, "The Mamba Mentality" exceeded expectations. Even as someone without a deep interest in basketball, I found its lessons transformative. The book reinforces two enduring principles that transcend sports: FOCUS and HUMILITY.

    Whether you’re a basketball fan or simply seeking inspiration, "The Mamba Mentality" delivers timeless lessons from a master of his craft. It’s a book that leaves a lasting impression—one that will continue to influence both personal and professional pursuits.
    16 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on February 27, 2025
    The book was great, wonderful pictures & message, my grandson loves Kobe, the book hit the spot for him,
  • Reviewed in the United States on January 13, 2025
    I bought this book for inspiration, motivation and mostly self-discipline. Who better to learn that from than Kobe? However it's still saddens me sometimes to think of the other remarkable things he would have undoubtedly accomplished, had his life continued. This is one athlete that I respect on and off the court. He had his challenges initially but he overcame them and became a better man all around. Much like his approach to basketball. He worked on improving his weaknesses.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2025
    Great book a lot of pictures and a very very quick read but tons of quality life quotes
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 4, 2024
    Just as Kobe's game is very reminiscent of MJ's, this book is reminiscent of For the Love of the Game: My Story where MJ is sharing his thoughts about the game amidst beautiful and captivating images. This book allows you to peek into the process of how Kobe prepared and how he viewed the game, his opponents, his teammates and his life. It was very revealing and tough to put down! It also has some great lessons for life, as you can apply a lot of his mental approach and work ethic to your life to be better. This is one of those books that I will definitely take back out and re-read from time to time and it's worth having on your shelf even if you are not a big Kobe Bryant fan. Highly recommend!!
    4 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2023
    The book, Mamba Mentality How I Play, by: Andrew D. Bernstien is great for young athletes that need tips and motivation for their selected sport. The book shows Kobe Bryant’s perspective of basketball and his method of how hw became a great player. The book talks about how Kobe played against his opponents, his work ethic and Kobes relationship with his teammates.

    The first reason this book is great for young athletes is that this book inspires young players to work, play, train, and practice just like Kobe, and can result in success in the athletes. The reason this could inspire them is that Kobe was an all-time great NBA player that finished his career with five NBA championships, so who wouldn’t want to be like him?

    In the book Kobe shows how he developed a solid relationship with his teammates on and off the court. Take for example Pau Gasol, in this book they dedicated a whole page to Pau Gasol’s relationship with Kobe and how their relationship resulted in multiple championships. Pau states how when he was traded from the Memphis grizzlies to the LA Lakers, Pau had to get on a plane from Memphis to LA, and as soon as he arrived at his apartment… Kobe showed up to meet Pau, the new member of the team for the first time in the middle of the night! This shows that Kobe was so determined and dedication to develop a great relationship with his new team member. This can inspire young athletes to develop and prioritize good relationships with their teammates.

    The book also spoke about Kobes relationship with other players outside of his team or in other words his opponents. Kobe always studied the players gameplay that he would be playing against in the game on Sunday night. He noticed the tiniest details on other players strategies and would take them and use them in his own advantage. This can embolden young athletes to study their opponents to improve their game.

    In conclusion this book is perfect for young athletes that need that tiny bit of inspiration, motivation or Kobes little tips to become a winner.
    7 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2025
    Cool book to read and teaches a lot about basketball and other players in the NBA. Nice pictures and a lot of info about playing basketball.
  • Reviewed in the United States on February 19, 2025
    I highly recommend this book. It’s great if you have a basketball player in your family each section is brief and really interesting. It was a hit with my daughter for her birthday and she is far too young to have ever Kobe play.

Top reviews from other countries

Translate all reviews to English
  • Vitalii Semeniuta
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great book! 👍
    Reviewed in Poland on June 12, 2023
    Great book! Thanks to the author for the work done 👍
  • Helena
    5.0 out of 5 stars Cover a bit damaged
    Reviewed in France on May 7, 2021
    Dear,
    I just received the item (absolutely in love with the book) but that little rip on the cover annoys me. Kobe was about excellent and this isn’t unfortunately.

    Five stars is for the book. Breathtaking pictures and amazing narrative 💜💛
    Customer image
    Helena
    5.0 out of 5 stars
    Cover a bit damaged

    Reviewed in France on May 7, 2021
    Dear,
    I just received the item (absolutely in love with the book) but that little rip on the cover annoys me. Kobe was about excellent and this isn’t unfortunately.

    Five stars is for the book. Breathtaking pictures and amazing narrative 💜💛
    Images in this review
    Customer image
  • Ziad El Osmani
    5.0 out of 5 stars RIP Kobe
    Reviewed in Saudi Arabia on May 29, 2021
    First, RIP Kobe, we miss you big time :(
    The book is made of high quality material!
  • Efthymios K.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Very good book
    Reviewed in Germany on June 2, 2023
    For any mamba fans, a must buy!
    Even for people not knowing anything about basketball, it is worth taking a read.
    Kobe Bryant, wrote the book very accurate and describes the details (as also the story) very good.
    Would recommend!
  • Rutger
    5.0 out of 5 stars Prachtig vormgegeven boek
    Reviewed in the Netherlands on March 30, 2024
    Prachtig vormgegeven boek met fraaie fotos van Andrew Bernstein. Leuk kado voor de serieuze basketballer.
    Report

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