Now that Kobe is an adult and has achieved fame and success, astonishing many in the 1999 Finals, he no longer needs a guardian, and Joe Bryant's responsibilities have naturally come to an end.
However, Joe and his wife are not willing to relinquish control over Kobe. Although Joe has some savings from his time playing in Europe and receives a pension from the NBA, this money is far from adequate for their daily expenses.
Their spending is mainly covered by Kobe's income, and as they watch Kobe grow older and stronger in controlling his own life, they are seeking various ways to gain more control.
This summer, Joe Bryant encouraged Kobe to purchase an Italian professional team, with Joe running it, so he could have something to do.
Additionally, years later when Kobe retires from the NBA, he could just like Joe, play in Italy, or directly take over the club, continuing to enjoy the pleasures of basketball.
