While watching the various stories about Kobe Bryant’s life, I realized that he was the prototypical athlete that the professional leadership development process (PLP) was based on. The PLP is based on how professional and Olympic athletes who, no matter how good they are, continue to work at their craft to continue improving. These athletes start with a high level of skills or abilities, but it’s their drive and determination that sets them apart from the rest. Kobe didn’t have to take 1,000 shots a day. He could have had a long, financially rewarding career just being an good NBA player, but that’s not what he wanted. He wanted to be the best, so that meant continuing to work as his game and keep improving throughout his career.