The Classic Rookie Picture of Kobe Bryant. In 1996, Kobe Bryant, then just eighteen years old, was set to begin what would become a famous NBA career. In the lead-up to his rookie campaign, Kobe took part in an iconic picture shoot that would perfectly embody his young exuberance and limitless potential.

The images show a young Kobe wearing the recognisable Los Angeles Lakers uniform, his eyes bursting with the fire and drive that would define his whole career. He can be seen soaring high into the air with the basketball in hand in one especially impressive picture, his body frozen in a moment of perfect athletic grace.