Photo Courtesy of Instagram (@vanessabryant)
Vanessa Bryant, widow of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, has come out on top in a legal dispute related to her late husband’s investment in the sports drink company, BodyArmor.
According to TMZ Sports, Vanessa was awarded more than $1.5 million following the legal battle.
The story begins with Kobe’s initial investment of $6 million in BodyArmor years ago. When Coca-Cola acquired full control of the company in a massive $5.6 billion deal in November 2021, the value of Kobe’s investment skyrocketed to a staggering $400 million. The success of BodyArmor can be attributed, in part, to Kobe’s vision and belief in the brand.
However, things took a legal turn when Kobe Inc. president Molly Carter filed a lawsuit claiming that Kobe had promised her a percentage of his earnings from the BodyArmor deal. In response, Vanessa filed a countersuit, alleging that Carter had violated her employment contract by speaking ill of Kobe and their family. The case went to arbitration, and the arbitrator ruled in favor of Vanessa Bryant.
With the arbitration decision in her favor, Vanessa is now seeking the court’s confirmation of the ruling. The legal victory is a significant win for Vanessa, ensuring that her late husband’s estate remains protected and that his wishes are respected.
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As the legal battle comes to a close, Vanessa Bryant can now focus on preserving the legacy of her late husband and raising their family. Kobe Bryant’s impact on the world of basketball and beyond will forever be remembered, and his investment in BodyArmor stands as a testament to his business acumen.
So, let’s raise a glass to Vanessa Bryant for her legal triumph and to Kobe Bryant, whose vision and belief continue to inspire and shape the future.