When Kobe entered the league in the 1996 draft, the No.33 jersey was his first choice, but Lakers superstar Abdel-Gabbar wore it until he retired. At present, No.33 jersey is hanging on the roof of Staples Arena.
Kobe didn't consider the No.24 jersey at that time. He chose the No.8 jersey for two reasons. When he lived in Italy with his father, he wore the No.8 jersey. In addition, when Kobe attended Adidas "ABCD" training camp, his number was "143", and the three numbers together were "8".
1995, after Jordan came back, Kobe still had 22 regular-season games to play, because Kobe's No.23 jersey had been retired at that time, so Kobe could only fight in No.45 jersey. However, Jordan later broke the rules and put on his favorite No.23 jersey again, and was also fined by the league.
Later, considering Kobe's identity and status, even if the veteran doesn't leave the Lakers next season, he will automatically change his jersey number to make way for Kobe, the team's boss.
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At the same time of his career, Kobe devoted himself to charity and helped poor children in various ways. He spared no effort to contribute to the community, including the Make-a-Wish Foundation, St. Yuda Children's Hospital and Boys & Girls Club of America. The American Girls Club is the three most important stages of his charity activities.
Kobe Bryant is the ambassador of the American national charity after-school All-Stars (ASAS). He visited many schools founded by associations and provided free learning and training opportunities for suitable young people in his basketball camp (Kobe Bryant).