If you are like me, you are probably shocked to learn that the NBA’s most famous and highest paid player Kobe Bryant is a football fan. Apparently the 4 time NBA champion has been a fan ever since he was introduced to the game at the tender age of six.
Bryant who comes from a very strong sporting family moved to Italy with his father Joe Bryant who opted to ply his trade professionally in Europe.
“AC Milan was always my favorite team growing up.” “It actually started in Italy when I used to go to the basketball courts to play by myself and you used to have the little goalposts underneath the basket.
“I’d show up wanting to play basketball and there would be 12 kids waiting to have a match.
“They just put me in goal because I had these long arms and long legs, and I just had to stop everything that came my way.
“Then as months went on, they finally let me out on the field a little bit.”
Bryant is currently in South Africa on his first visit to the continent and spent time visiting township areas beginning in the famous Soweto.
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to come and see the World Cup and to come and see South Africa.”
“Even though I’m a basketball player, the messages remain the same because I was a kid just like they were — it’s all about accomplishing the dream.
“I think it’s only right and it’s important that once you’ve reached a certain level you give back and you help the next generation of players and kids accomplish their goals too.”
As Kobe continues his African tour, his favourite club are preparing to line up a bid for Brazilian hit-man Luis Fabiano. Although there are no official offers tabled yet, it looking very likely that O fabuloso will be joining the Rossoneri.
According to his agent Jose Fuentes, Fabiano ‘likes’ Milan. It however, remains to be seen whether Milan Vice President Adriano Galliani will take up Fabiano on his plea.
Turkish Outfit Fenerbece have also increased their offer for Klass Jan Huntelaar by 5 million Euros to 23 million as they seek to lure the 26 year old away from the San Siro. Reports however suggest that the Dutchman is keen on fighting for his place in Milan’s starting 11.
With a number of key players linked to Milan, this summer transfer season might prove to the club’s busiest. I only hope they also invest in some good young players.
Photo credit: from zemordotnet