Kobe Lorenzo Forster Paras
Kobe Lorenzo Forster Paras

Kobe Lorenzo Forster Paras, born on September 19, 1997, in Quezon City, Philippines, is a Filipino professional basketball player renowned for his athleticism and domestic and international contributions to the sport.

 

 

Family Background and Early Life

Kobe is the son of Benjie Paras, a legendary figure in Philippine basketball, celebrated as a two-time Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Most Valuable Player and the only player in PBA history to earn Rookie of the Year and MVP honors in the same season. His mother, Jackie Forster, is a former actress. Kobe has an older brother, Andre, a basketball player and actor, and half-siblings from his parents’ subsequent marriages.

 

Named after NBA legend Kobe Bryant, Paras was inspired to pursue basketball from a young age. He initially attended La Salle Green Hills in the Philippines before moving to the United States to further his education and basketball career. He enrolled at Cathedral High School in Los Angeles, California, where he gained significant attention for his skills on the court.

 

 

 

 

Collegiate Career

Paras committed to play college basketball at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), but withdrew after the university’s admissions department determined he did not meet their academic requirements. He then joined Creighton University for the 2016–2017 season, appearing in 15 games as a freshman. Seeking more playing time and development, Paras transferred to Cal State Northridge, where he redshirted and did not play in official games. Eventually, he returned to the Philippines to play for the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), earning a spot on the UAAP Mythical Team in 2019.

 

 

 

Professional Career

In September 2021, Paras began his professional career by signing with Niigata Albirex BB of Japan’s B.League. He made an impressive debut, scoring 25 points, but his contract was not renewed after the season. In June 2022, he joined Altiri Chiba, a team newly promoted to the B2 League, Japan’s second division. Paras parted ways with Altiri Chiba in March 2023.

 

 

 

 

Personal Life

Paras has been linked to several relationships, including a past relationship with Erika Rae Poturnak, daughter of actress Ina Raymundo. As of November 2024, he is reported to be in a relationship with actress Kyline Alcantara.

 

 

 

 

Physical Attributes

  • Height: 6 feet 6 inches (198 cm)
  • Weight: Approximately 200 pounds (91 kg)
  • Position: Small forward
  • Eye Color: Brown
  • Hair Color: Black

Achievements and Impact

Kobe Paras has been celebrated throughout his career for his athleticism, versatility, and contributions to basketball in the Philippines and abroad. His journey reflects resilience and adaptability, navigating the challenges of international play and collegiate transitions. As the son of a basketball legend, he has carved out his own identity in the sport, inspiring many young athletes in the Philippines.