Kobe Bryant inspires Warner Bros to revive the legend of the Black Mamba

The legend of Kobe Bryant is about to take another leap—this time from the hardwood to Hollywood. Warner Bros Discovery is developing a biographical film about the iconic Lakers shooting guard, aiming to capture not just his athletic brilliance but also the emotional depth that turned the “Black Mamba” into a global symbol of resilience and excellence.

As reported by Spanish outlet Okdiario. The studio has launched the Kobe Bryant production alongside the team behind King Richard. The film that told the story of Venus and Serena Williams and earned Will Smith an Oscar. Also joining the project is 199 Productions, the company founded by Tom Brady, adding even more weight to the film’s sports-driven narrative.

Origins of the Mamba

The movie will focus on the early years of Kobe Bryant. From his breakout in the 1996 NBA Draft to his rise as one of the most influential players in league history. According to additional reports, the screenplay—written by Alex Sohn and Gavin Johanssen—will explore the draft process in detail. Bryant was initially considered by the New Jersey Nets with the eighth pick before being selected by the Charlotte Hornets and traded to the Lakers. That move changed everything.

A Kobe Bryant biopic titled “With The 8th Pick” is officially in development at Warner Brothers 🍿

The movie details the dramatic draft-night saga around the Nets failed pursuit of drafting the Mamba 👀 pic.twitter.com/wGobnTbRz7

— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) August 24, 2025

This narrative approach echoes films like Moneyball or Air, where sports drama intersects with strategic decisions that shaped the game. In Kobe Bryant’s case, his arrival in Los Angeles didn’t just elevate the franchise—it redefined the competitive standard of the NBA. Five championship rings, 18 All-Star selections, and a work ethic that became a philosophy: the “Mamba Mentality.”

A project with weight and meaning

The film may also explore Kobe Bryant’s connection to cinema. Back in 2018, he won an Oscar for Dear Basketball, an animated short based on a poem he wrote himself, with music by John Williams and animation by Glen Keane. It showcased Kobe’s artistic sensitivity and his ability to connect with audiences far beyond the sports world.

This project lands at a time when Hollywood is betting big on sports biopics. HBO’s Winning Time revisited the Lakers dynasty of the 1980s, while Netflix turned The Last Dance into a global phenomenon. Now it’s Kobe Bryant’s turn—a story that deserves not just to be told, but celebrated.

No director has been announced yet, and there’s no confirmed release date. Still, the buzz surrounding the news suggests this will be one of the most anticipated titles for basketball and film fans alike. The recently unveiled statue of Kobe Bryant at Crypto.com Arena. Where he stands beside his daughter Gianna, is a powerful tribute to his legacy. This film will undoubtedly be another monument to his memory.