Dear Basketball

This animated short film is a love letter from basketball legend Kobe Bryant to the sport he played for two decades. It chronicles his journey from a young boy with dreams of playing in the NBA to his final game, capturing the passion, dedication, and emotional farewell to the game that defined his life. The narrative is deeply personal, reflecting on the sacrifices and triumphs that come with pursuing a lifelong passion.

Dear Basketball was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its emotional resonance and the powerful synergy between Kobe Bryant's heartfelt narration and Glen Keane's masterful animation. It was celebrated as a poignant and fitting tribute to Bryant's illustrious career and his profound love for the game.

• A deeply personal and moving tribute to a legendary athlete's love for his sport.
• Exceptional animation beautifully brings Kobe Bryant's heartfelt words to life.
• An emotional and inspiring short film that resonates with fans and non-fans alike.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised 'Dear Basketball' for its emotional impact and its effective storytelling. Many viewers found Kobe Bryant's narration deeply inspiring and touching, appreciating the film's ability to capture the essence of his career and his passion for basketball. The animation was also frequently highlighted as a strong positive element.

Won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film at the 90th Academy Awards.

The script for 'Dear Basketball' was written by Kobe Bryant himself as a letter to the sport upon his retirement, and it was narrated by him in the film.