Real-Life Reader Biographies present the lives of contemporary role models for young readers. These are the stories of real men and women who, despite many obstacles, followed their dreams. Kobe Bryant entered the NBA straight out of Lower Merion High School in Pennsylvania. He was an All-Star by his second season. The son of Joe "Jelly Bean" Bryant, a forward of the Philadelphia 76ers back when the franchise was a league power, Kobe has basketball in his blood. He spent seven years in Italy while his father played professional ball in the Italian League. He speaks fluent Italian. In December 1999, he purchased a 50 percent ownership in Olimpia Milano, the team his father played for in Italy. By the time he was 21 years old, Kobe was an NBA superstar and an entrepreneur. With his whole life ahead of him, this talented young man with the confident smile is enjoying every moment.