Kobe Bryant: The Lord of The Rings and His “Laker Fellowship”

Kobe Bryant and Frodo Baggins wouldn't seem to have much in common. Kobe is at least three feet taller than his counterpart, and I wouldn't guess Frodo was ever picked first in any of his pickup toad-pie skipping contests; However, the two are indeed kindred spirits, and their journeys contain parallels far beyond the obvious.

Both men are entrusted with a task; a task so great that the balances of power in their worlds are wholly connected to their respective successes. Like Kobe, Frodo's journey begins in the Shire (OK, for Kobe it's Hollywood, but I'll afford myself some creative licence and call it good). He inherits a ring (or five), and is advised by long-time confidant Gandalf the Grey Wizard (an obvious reference to Phil) to guard it with his life.