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Wednesday, Jun 17
Format: Hardcover
Description
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. Read more
Publisher : MCD
Publication date : October 23, 2018
Edition : Illustrated
Language : English
Print length : 208 pages
ISBN-10 : 0374201234
ISBN-13 : 34
Item Weight : 3.15 pounds
Dimensions : 9.2 x 1 x 11.1 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #1,646 in Books (See Top 100 in Books) #2 in Basketball Biographies (Books) #2 in Basketball (Books)
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Top Amazon Reviews
Format: Hardcover
Love this book. Great quality and just a great book all around. Will be buying more from this company.
Reviewed in the United States on June 3, 2026 by Tracy Roberts
Format: Hardcover
"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.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2024 by Enya
Format: Hardcover
Mamba Mentality Book Review In the book “Mamba Mentality,” I found it to be a very entertaining and interesting read. The best part of it all was how Kobe was the one telling all of his stories in first person. To be able to read all of the stories and advice he gave throughout the book is like talking to him in real life. Summary of the Book (SPOILER ALERT) In “Mamba Mentality,” Kobe Bryant explains how his career went and some stories he shared about what goes on behind the scenes. There are stories about his mental prep before games, how he stays healthy, at his best night in and night out, and how hard he would work to be the best he could possibly be. Kobe shares that he keep his health and condition the best it can be by finding an imbalance in his body. He explains it as if there is a weak spot in your body, that spot can be causing pain in the spot where it is. An example could be if his hip is unbalanced, that could lead to pain in his back. Kobe also worked and devoted himself to basketball arguably more than anyone. Kobe was mentally a freak. In the book, Kobe states, “Whether I hear an elite college or NBA or a Fortune 500 CEO reference the #MambaMentality, I find it very meaningful. When I see people talk about finding inspiration in it, it makes all of my hard work, all of the sweat, all of the 3 AM wakeups feel worth it. That’s why I put together this book. All these pages incorporate lessons- not just lessons on basketball, but also on the Mamba Mentality.” This is what Kobe is all about. Hard work makes Kobe Bryant Kobe Bryant. There is no better example to use than him. Kobe would also tell stories and talk about other players play styles that he competed against. People such as Shaq, Lebron, Vince, KD, MJ, Paul Pierce, Tracy Mcgrady, Allen Iverson, Russell Westbrook, and Magic Johnson just to name few. He explains about Allen Iverson that to guard him it was all about timing. He said Russell Westbrook loved to guard him because he Russell loved to embrace the challenge to try to stop him. For Paul Pierce, Kobe said he was one of the toughest players he ever had to guard. There are many more stories and players Kobe talks about but those are just to name a few. Overall, Kobe wrote a tremendous, well written book that personally is one of my favorites ever. My Personal Take I found “Mamba Mentality” one of my personal favorites ever. 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 these stories and details right to you. The book was in first person and to have the perspective of one of the arguably top 3 basketball players of all time was my favorite part about it. I would give it a ten out of ten rating.
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Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2018 by Judith Anderson
Format: Hardcover
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.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2023 by yellow1
Format: Hardcover
First let me start by saying I’m praying for continued strength and healing for Vanessa Bryant, Natalia, Blanka, Capri. I’m praying for the souls of Kobe and GiGi as well. I should be just writing a review of his book, but instead I have to write this opening. I can’t imagine the pain that their family is going through. Now with that being said: Man I’m sorry it took me so long to get this book. I bought this book of course like a lot of others (based on it constantly being sold out) right after Kobe & GiGi’s passing. This book is like none that I’ve ever read well not currently anyway. I say not currently, because I’ve read read religiously books like Bruce Lee’s book on Jeet Kune Do, The Prince Machiavelli and Sun Tzu’s The Art of War. All three books are old books that paint a great picture for the reader and helps them move about their lives or learn how to handle situations that come up. Kobe’s book is a modern day style of how to live your life right. You don’t have to be a Basketball Player to appreciate the knowledge that Kobe put in this book. You can take it and spin it into your everyday life. His mentality on how he attacked the game and how much of a sponge he was when it came to being the student of the game is proof to why he was who he was. Mamba Mentality isn’t just a catchy catchphrase it’s a way of life that anyone can use in order to be successful. What a great book and I promise Kobe I’ll take every lesson you’ve taught and run with it in my everyday life. I’ll make sure to use the Mamba Mentality no matter where I am or what task I have to take on. RIP to you, your daughter and to the rest of the passengers.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2020 by DT Carpe Diem
Format: Hardcover
Really great book, as a basketball fan this is kinda cool to see what would go into the mind of kobe bryant before every game. I recommend Kobe fans reading this book
Reviewed in the United States on February 14, 2026 by rohit vijay
Format: Hardcover
A meaningful gift and ended up being something that really left an impression. The mindset behind the book is powerful and focused, emphasizing discipline, preparation, and relentless improvement in a way that feels both personal and motivating. It’s written in a way that’s easy to connect with, especially for anyone who values hard work, sports, or self-improvement. As a gift, it feels thoughtful and impactful because it’s not just a book—it represents a mindset shift. The recipient appreciated the message and the perspective it offers on commitment and excellence. Overall, it’s a strong, inspirational read that makes a lasting impression beyond just the pages.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 7, 2026 by Marie Phillips
Format: Hardcover
This is a book for the shelf. It is massive in size. Not something you can just throw in the bag. Obviously the quality of the book is great. Kobe was one of a kind and gives you a sneak peak on his work mindset. Great for the motivation collection.
Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2026 by Thomas Justin Hall