What does the late NBA great Kobe Bryant have to do with the Philippines? Many things, actually.
One, Filipinos love Kobe Bean.
Two, the Los Angeles Lakers legend has been to the country six times, with each visit being a massive event.
Three, his Black Mamba persona has hugely influenced his millions of supporters in the country.
Four, Filipinos are mad for basketball, and Kobe is really, really good at basketball.
Now, what does Kobe have to do with football? Well, he’s a huge fan of the beautiful game, growing up in Italy.
He got skills on the pitch as well.
Now, how do you tie up football, the Philippines, and Kobe altogether? Well, with one post on her Instagram Story, Filipinas veteran Eva Madarang did it.
On Sunday, the 26-year-old forward reposted an old video of Kobe rocking a Barong Tagalog, while gamely (and expertly) doing the Filipino folk dance Tinikling.
The priceless moment happened in 1998, during the five-time NBA champion’s first visit to the Philippines. Check out his footwork that would make other football players envious. Early on, he already had the makings of a terrific post player and a master of the pivot.
Most likely, Kobe’s partner was a professional dancer, but clearly, the young Mamba was able to hold his own.
ALSO READ: Sara Eggesvik, Angela Beard, other Filipinas express jubilation after big leap in FIFA Women’s rankings
As for Madarang, she deserves a big thank you for unearthing this cross-cultural treasure. We’re pretty sure, football, the Philippines, and Mamba Mentality will cross paths again when Madarang shifts her focus on helping the Filipinas in their upcoming tournaments.
(PM)