Kobe Bryant-Inspired Mamba Foundation Criticized For Low Program Expenses
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The Kobe Bryant-inspired Mamba and Mabacita charity foundation has been criticized for its lack of money spent towards its program despite amassing a network of nearly $30 million.
According to documents obtained by Sportico, the nonprofit foundation, named in honor of the late NBA legend and his late daughter Gianna Bryant, had a reported net worth of over $27 million at the end of 2022. However, tax documents state that the charity only reported $481,953 in program expenses, only $37,840 more than its total legal ($250,259) and accounting ($193,854) fees.
The Mamba and Mambacita Foundation’s expenses were allocated toward the construction and refurbishment of outdoor basketball courts across the country, with $14,400 being granted to Mural Arts Philadelphia for a mural honoring Kobe and Gianna at a local recreation center.
Of the $27 million in assets accrued by the foundation at that time, $13 million came from contributions (including $300,000 worth of sneakers), with $7.3 million coming through royalties received throughout that year. The foundation also brought in $10 million in revenue though a single contribution, however, the source of that money remains undisclosed.
On Jan. 26, 2020, Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant, and seven other passengers passed away in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, Ca. In May 2022, Bryant’s wife, Vanessa Bryant, won a $16 million lawsuit against Los Angeles County after photos of her husband’s and daughter’s remains were publicly shared by members of the sheriff’s and fire department.
Following the verdict, Vanessa Bryant vowed to donate the money to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation. Kat Conlon, the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation’ executive director, has reportedly not responded for comment regarding the foundation and its expenses.
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