While Kobe Bryant was one of the most successful NBA stars of all time, his life post-retirement earned him even more plaudits. The Black Mamba did not believe in rest. Like Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, and Magic Johnson, the Los Angeles Lakers legend was enjoying a successful second chapter in his career before his untimely demise. Someone who followed a similar path was Dwyane Wade.

Looking at business investments, taking up new challenges or ownerships, winning awards, etc. Wade and Bryant had a lot in common. While Kobe’s death was a heartbreaking moment for many, including Dwyane Wade, this led to a surprising revelation for him, which he shared on his podcast.

He said, “Actually Kobe was doing amazing in retirement. So for me when I was getting ready to retire, I was like, ‘Cool, imma be able to reach out to Kobe, imma be able to ask him anything about like, TV production, investing, all the things he was doing.” 

Wade continued, “He was doing it at the same level he was playing it…and unfortunately, when we lost our brother, I thought like I became a leader in retirement for athletes.” His guest on the podcast, Olympic Gold-winning Alpine Skier Lindsey Vonn, suggested that he had started to become a leader even before Bryant’s passing. She said, “You have definitely led the way in retirement.”

The Miami Heat legend believes he is the successor of the 5x NBA champion when it comes to achieving in retirement. He continues to “push the envelope” and is adamant about being a leader for the next generation. Wade definitely has a post-career resume for it already.

How is Dwyane Wade heading down a similar path to Kobe Bryant? 

The $170 million rich Wade made some hefty purchases right after he bid farewell to the game. After the Utah Jazz ownership, he bought some stake in the WNBA’s Chicago Sky. He actively started promoting his spirits company, the ‘Wade Cellars’. Importantly, he is fulfilling an important role as a father of four kids, which Bryant did too. 

Apart from this, he has also produced a documentary short film called, ‘The Barber of Little Rock’, which has received an Oscar nomination. Bryant also won an Oscar for his animated short film, ‘Dear Basketball’, which was widely spoken about. Wade has a chance for an Oscar, just like Bryant. We already see a similar path and if the 3x champion secures this honor, it will be a cherry on the cake. 

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What are your thoughts on the careers of Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade? Do you see the similarities too? Let us know in the comments below.

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