NBA 2K fans got a pleasant surprise when it was announced that a fan-favorite game mode was getting a Kobe Bryant spin for NBA 2K24.
2K Sports announced that the latest edition will have a "Mamba Moments" game mode, drawing from the same concept as the "Jordan Challenge" from NBA 2K11 that was rebooted in NBA 2K22.
The "Mamba Moments" will cover some of the signature games from Bryant's illustrious career, starting with his breakout in the 2001 NBA Playoffs all the way through to his fifth NBA championship in 2010.
"Featuring incredible performances that don't always get the spotlight, Mamba Moments demonstrates Kobe's legacy to a new generation of NBA fans," NBA 2K wrote in the press release.
Which moments made the cut? We have you covered with all of them below, along with the newly released Mamba Moments trailer.
MORE: When does NBA 2K24 come out? Release date, cost, editions guide and more
NBA 2K24 Mamba Moments, explained: Kobe Bryant game mode debuts with seven playable moments
The Mamba Moments will have seven signature games from Bryant's career, beginning with the 2001 Western Conference Semifinals and concluding with his fifth NBA championship in the 2010 NBA Finals.
Each moment will capture Bryant's fierce and emotional mannerisms, with everything from biting his jersey to his classic and emphatic fist pumps.
You can find each of the seven moments below.
2001 Western Conference Semifinals, Game 4
- Just 22 years young, Bryant made it clear that he would become a force to be reckoned with in Game 4 of the West Semis against the Kings. The three-time All-Star exploded for 48 points and 16 rebounds to complete a four-game sweep of the Lakers' rivals, going on to win his second NBA championship later that postseason.
Kobe sets NBA single-game 3-point record in 2003
- Back before the 3-point shot was featured the way it is in today's NBA, a young Kobe became the NBA's single-game 3-point leader by knocking down 12 of his 18 attempts against the Seattle SuperSonics in 2003.
Kobe drops 55 on Wizards' Michael Jordan in 2003
- A classic "idols become your rivals" moment. Bryant never backed down from his idol, Jordan, and this instance was no different. In his final matchup with Jordan, Bryant poured in 55 points — including a Lakers franchise record with 42 points in a single half — to leave a lasting impression on the GOAT.
Kobe erupts for 62 points in three quarters in 2005
- One of the most dominant performances of Bryant's career. In 2005, Kobe only needed three quarters and 32 minutes of playing time to drop 62 points on the Mavericks, giving himself the entire fourth quarter off with the game out of reach.
Kobe goes off for 65 points with eight 3s in 2007
- The second-highest single-game scoring output of Bryant's career came in 2007 when he dropped 65 points with eight 3-pointers on the Trail Blazers to snap the Lakers' seven-game losing streak.
2008 Western Conference Finals, Game 5
- The Spurs were looking to keep their NBA title defense alive in 2008 but Bryant assured his Lakers would lock up a date with the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Tim Duncan went for a triple-double of 19 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists but Bryant erupted for 39 points to send San Antonio home gentleman's sweep fashion.
2010 NBA Finals, Game 7
- After falling to the Celtics in the 2008 NBA Finals, Bryant was willing to do anything it would take to defeat his rivals on the championship stage. Looking to win back-to-back titles for the first time since the Lakers' three-peat from 2000 to 2002, Bryant dug deep through a rough Game 7 to go for 23 points and 15 rebounds to take down Boston and win his fifth NBA championship.
