Kobe Bryant once told the story of Ronaldinho introducing him to a 17-year-old Lionel Messi and it makes for fascinating viewing.
Bryant was killed alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others on Sunday following a helicopter crash in Los Angeles.
Videos of the iconic basketballer are now going viral, including an interview when he describes meeting young Messi.
"I'll tell you a story. A long time ago, Barcelona came to Los Angeles," Bryant said.
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"Ronaldinho, who was a good friend, I was talking with him and he told me: 'Kobe, look I'm going to introduce you to the guy who is going to be the greatest player of all time."
The LA Lakers legend went on to say he believed Ronaldinho was the best, but the Brazilian reaffirmed that a young Messi would take his crown.
"I said: 'You what? You are the best.' But he said: 'No, no. This kid right here is going to be the best.' And that guy was Lionel Messi, who was only 17."
Messi and Bryant's paths would cross again in 2013 when they appeared in a series of Turkish Airlines advert together.
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The advert was titled 'Legends on Board' and featured a young child approaching the two superstars for autographs on an airplane.
They both proceed to show off their talents to the child, who eventually rejects them for an air hostess with a plate of food.
Bryant was known as a big football fan and was asked about Messi's impact on Barcelona by CNN less than two weeks before his death.
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When discussing the 32-year-old, Kobe said:
"He's [Messi] one of the greatest athletes of all time - his tenacity, intelligence with which he plays as well as his skill.
"It just puts him head and shoulders above the rest."
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It's clear to see that the two elite sportsmen shared a tremendous amount of respect for each other.
Bryant's death sent a shock across the sporting world and his legacy will live on.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics:ย Ronaldinho, Football, Lionel Messi, NBA
