Kobe on PH: It’s like home away from home

MANILA, Philippines — Thousands of miles away from Los Angeles, Kobe Bryant — on his 6th visit to basketball-mad Philippines — did not feel a bit that he is far from home.

Watch: Kobe Bryant #WalangIwanan Presscon

“The passion for the sport is just there. I felt like I’m at the Staples Center!” the NBA star, who is in town to promote Lenovo mobile phones, said. “It’s like home away from home.”

Speaking at a press conference held at Resorts World Manila, the 5-time NBA champion expressed his admiration for Filipinos’ love for basketball.

“What I love most about the Philippines is the passion for the game of basketball. I love being around it.”

The Philippines has just wrapped up its FIBA Asia Championship hosting the night before as they put themselves back on the basketball world map by finishing second in the continent’s biggest cagefest and qualifying to the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain. 

Depending on the draw, the Philippines might just get to face reigning champs USA in the 24-team showcase next year.

Bryant, a two-time Olympic gold medalist for the United States himself, however dismissed the possibility of playing against Gilas Pilipinas in 2014 stating that it is time for the younger ones to take the flag in the world stage.

“I am not playing in the FIBA Worlds next year. I think it is important for the next generation to get a chance to represent our country.”

He has a straightforward advice for the Philippine team, though.

“Continue to play together. More than anything else, teamwork is very important,” the 34-year-old Los Angeles Laker said. “When that happens, you can accomplish something truly special.”

Bryant joins the all-star cast of NBA standouts who have visited the country this year with LeBron James, James Harden, and Eric Gordon. – Rappler.com