Soccer (or football, as we call it) is the default sport when I was growing up in the United Arab Emirates. Most of my classmates didn't care much for basketball because it didn't *look* that cool -- until we came across Kobe Bryant compilations.
Kobe showed us how the game could be played at the highest level. His incredible work ethic and talent combined to produce effortless-looking execution. Our shared admiration for the Mamba and his peers brought us together. Soon enough, a group of diehard fans and players had formed in my class; at least 2 of whom went on to join their college teams.
"Sports are such a great teacher. I think of everything they've taught me: camaraderie, humility, how to resolve differences." - K.B.
Thanks, Kobe, for introducing us to basketball and for lessons that no classroom could teach.
Thanks Kobe
4