Kobe Bryant just entered retirement, but he’s already busy launching a $100 million venture capital fund. Bryant partnered with Jeff Stibel to launch Bryant Stibel. They plan to invest in tech, media and data companies.
Both bring different skills to the table — Stibel is known as a brain scientist who has served as CEO of web.com and has founded numerous other tech and marketing companies. Bryant brings his creative genius (he designed the Bryant Stibel logo) and his expertise in marketing. The former Laker has spent lots of time becoming familiar with the tech scene to be sure it’s something he’s passionate about.
This isn’t the first time the pair have worked together. They’ve invested in 15 businesses together since 2013. Some of their past investments include sports media site The Players’ Tribune, juicing company, Juicero, and game designer, Scopely. Bryant Stibel isn’t currently seeking outside funds.
But Bryant isn’t the first basketball player to take this route. Carmelo Anthony started an early-stage investment fund, Melo7 Tech Partners, and Shaquille O’Neal has invested in tech and media companies over the years.
Looks like these athletes understand there’s a life after the game, and it’s definitely one worth investing in.
