Kobe Lorenzo Forster Paras, born on September 19, 1997, is a 26-year-old Filipino professional basketball player who last played for Altiri Chiba in the B2 League. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches (1.98 m) and weighing 200 pounds (91 kg), he excels in the small forward position. Kobe, who has been a member of the Philippine national team and the national 3×3 team, is currently single and has no children. His estimated net worth is around $500,000, accumulated from his basketball career and endorsements.
Basketball Legacy
Kobe is the son of Benjie Paras, a legendary player in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), and former actress Jackie Forster. He grew up in a basketball-centric family, with his father being the only player in PBA history to be named Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. His older brother, Andre, also pursued basketball and acting, creating a household deeply ingrained in sports and entertainment.
Early Development
Kobe’s high school basketball journey began in the Philippines at La Salle Greenhills in Mandaluyong. He later transferred to Cathedral High School in Los Angeles, where he played for the Phantoms. Kobe excelled at Cathedral, averaging 15.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game as a junior. His performance earned him All-State nominee honors and a First Team All-Del Rey League selection.
High School Success
For his senior year, Kobe played for Middlebrooks Academy to avoid eligibility conflicts due to the differing academic calendars between the Philippines and the U.S. At Middlebrooks, he was nominated for the McDonald’s All-American Game and earned the PEC-6 Conference MVP Award. His participation in elite showcases like Adidas Nations and the Adidas All-American Camp further highlighted his potential.
College Transitions
Kobe’s college basketball journey was marked by several transitions. Initially, he committed to playing at UCLA but withdrew after failing to meet their academic requirements. He then joined Creighton University for the 2016-17 season. At Creighton, Kobe played in 15 games, tallying 20 points and 15 rebounds in 70 minutes of play. Despite showing promise, he struggled to secure a regular spot and decided to leave after his freshman year.
New Opportunities
In May 2017, Kobe announced his commitment to Cal State Northridge, but he left before playing a game following the firing of the head coach and athletic director. Instead, he returned to the Philippines to play for the UP Fighting Maroons, a decision influenced by his desire to honor his father’s legacy and pursue a top-tier education.
Professional Debut
Kobe’s professional career began with Niigata Albirex BB in Japan’s B.League in 2021. He made an impressive debut, scoring 25 points with 4 assists and 2 steals. However, his contract was not renewed after the season. In June 2022, he joined Altiri Chiba, newly promoted to the B2 League. Kobe parted ways with Altiri Chiba in March 2023.
International Representation
Kobe has represented the Philippines in various international competitions. He was part of the junior national team that competed in the 2013 SEABA Under-16 Championship and the 2014 FIBA Asia Under-18 Championship. His senior national team appearances include the 2017 William Jones Cup and the 2017 Southeast Asian Games, where he played a crucial role in winning the gold medal.
3×3 Achievements
In 3×3 basketball, Kobe participated in the 2013 and 2015 FIBA 3×3 Under-18 World Championships, winning the slam dunk contests on both occasions. He also represented the Philippines in the 2017 FIBA 3×3 World Cup, earning player of the day honors during the tournament.
Personal Influences
Kobe Paras was named after NBA legend Kobe Bryant, reflecting his family’s deep connection to basketball. His father, Benjie Paras, is a celebrated figure in Philippine basketball, and his mother, Jackie Forster, is a former actress. Kobe’s family includes his older brother Andre and several half-siblings from his parents’ subsequent marriages. Despite the challenges and transitions in his career, Kobe has remained committed to his passion for basketball and continues to pursue opportunities to grow and excel in the sport.
Career Resilience
Kobe Paras’s journey in basketball is a testament to his resilience and determination. From his high school days in Los Angeles to his professional career in Japan, he has consistently demonstrated his talent and dedication. As he looks to the future, Kobe aims to further his career and continue making significant contributions to the sport, both in the Philippines and internationally.
Professional Growth
Kobe’s career, marked by transitions and achievements, showcases his unwavering commitment to basketball. His journey from high school phenom to professional player highlights the challenges and triumphs of an athlete dedicated to his craft. With a strong family legacy and a promising future, Kobe Paras continues to inspire and pave the way for aspiring basketball players.
Family Dynamics
Despite his busy career, Kobe maintains a strong connection with his family. The influence of his father, Benjie, and the support of his mother, Jackie, have been crucial in his development as both a player and a person. Kobe often speaks about the importance of his family’s support in interviews, highlighting how their encouragement has helped him navigate the ups and downs of his career.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Kobe Paras is focused on finding the right opportunities to further his basketball career. Whether it’s continuing to play internationally or returning to the Philippines, he remains dedicated to improving his skills and making an impact on the court. His experiences across different leagues have equipped him with a diverse set of skills and a deep understanding of the game.
Conclusion
Kobe Paras’s evolution from a high school standout to a professional basketball player is a journey marked by perseverance, talent, and a deep love for the sport. At 26, with a wealth of experience and a strong support system, he is poised for continued success. Kobe’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing that with hard work and determination, they too can achieve their dreams.