James Harden recently shared a life-changing piece of financial advice he got from Kobe Bryant, showing how Kobe’s influence went far beyond basketball. Kobe wasn’t just a basketball icon; he was also a savvy businessman who was eager to share his knowledge with others. Harden took that advice to heart, and it completely changed how he approached his finances.
In an interview on the Earn Your Leisure podcast, Harden explained how Kobe encouraged him to set up an investment fund. “Kobe told me, ‘Let’s put aside $5 million. Anytime an opportunity comes up—whether it’s $200,000 or $500,000—we’ll pull from this pot and invest,’” Harden said. That simple yet strategic plan paved the way for one of Harden’s smartest investments: putting money into the sports drink company BodyArmor.
Kobe Bryant told James Harden to invest in Body Armour with him & it payed off:
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) November 22, 2024
“I put 500 grand into Body Armor and got me a good amount of money back” 👀
Body Armor was later sold for $5.8 BILLION 🤯
🎥 @EarnYourLeisure
pic.twitter.com/ggCrJonbgs
Kobe had already invested $6 million in BodyArmor back in 2014 for a 10% stake. Inspired by him, Harden put in $500,000 of his own. Over the years, the company’s success skyrocketed, and by 2021, Coca-Cola acquired it for $8 billion. Kobe’s investment turned into an incredible $400 million, and Harden’s own stake brought in significant returns. It wasn’t just a great financial move—it was proof of how impactful Kobe’s guidance was.
But Kobe’s mentorship didn’t stop there. Harden credits Kobe for sparking his interest in business and teaching him how to turn his basketball earnings into long-term wealth. Today, Harden has built an impressive portfolio, including part ownership of the Houston Dynamo (MLS) and Houston Dash (NWSL) and investments in wellness companies like Therabody. Harden says Kobe’s advice gave him the confidence to think beyond basketball.
Also Read: James Harden Reveals Who His Ultimate NBA GOAT Choice Is & It May Shock You
James Harden On Continuing Kobe’s Legacy
Harden feels a strong responsibility to carry on Kobe’s legacy. “Carrying on Kobe’s legacy is really hard because he was truly one of a kind,” Harden said. “But I try to contribute creatively and keep things moving forward.” Like Kobe, Harden has also taken on a mentorship role, passing on what he’s learned to younger players.
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Kobe Bryant’s achievements in business were just as impressive as his success on the court. Beyond his investment in BodyArmor, he put money into companies like Alibaba, Dell, and Epic Games, and he even launched his own production company, Granity Studios. James Harden often says how Kobe Bryant’s businesslike discipline impacted him greatly. Kobe was what influenced Harden to invest in and make that deal. Harden still remembers Kobe’s advice and how it changed his views on investing.
When the BodyArmor deal went through, Harden took a minute to show appreciation to Kobe with a simple text, “We did it, bro! The best sports drink created. Wish you were here to celebrate.” Kobe’s mentality still helps Harden as he works to carve out his own legacy, focusing on smart investments, guiding younger players, and staying true to the lessons Kobe passed on.
