Bryant makes meaningful stop to meet Gawad Kalinga kids

It has been every basketball fan’s dream to meet a big name superstar, an NBA champion, a legend of the sport or simply their basketball idol. Get a chance to see him close and spend a few minutes with him.

And that dream became a reality for several kids of Gawad Kalinga’s “Sagip" program, when they had the chance to personally meet and greet NBA and Olympic champion Kobe Bryant on Tuesday at The Fort’s Nike Park in Taguig City that kicked off a six-city Asian Tour for the promotion of Nike’s Dream Season shoe.

A visibly excited Aaron, Keanu and Ralph waited patiently for Bryant’s arrival and they where the ones chosen to present a gift to the 2008 NBA regular season and Finals MVP. The gift was several art works drawn by kids under GK’s program.

The three said they are happy to meet Bryant. This will be their first time to meet Bryant and the second to meet another NBA superstar.

The Washington Wizards’ “Agent 0" Gilbert Arenas also met with the youth under GK’s program when he came to the Philippines a few years ago while PBA’s Jimmy Alapag of Philippine Cup champion Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters is also a regular visitor.

Aaron said meeting the NBA superstar is tops among his list of memorable events in his life and he would surely cherish the moment when he handed over their framed artworks to Bryant.

Keanu and Ralph added that they won’t brag to their friend of having the chance to meet Bryant but would tell them how a great player and friendly the two-time NBA scoring champion is.

Bryant said he makes it a point to support institutions and foundations that help people specially the underprivileged youth. He sees to it that he sets aside quality time to be with children who are interested in basketball.

“I love being around kids. I would like to see them and guide them since the kids are our future and we have to encourage them to keep dreaming big," said Bryant.

Bryant, along with Nike Philippines, donated P100,000 to GK’s “Sagip program to help the foundation continue its plans for the youth.

According to GK’s child and youth development program volunteer Jasper Costales the money will be used for the kid’s academic tutorials and sports development. “This will help GK’s programs for underprivileged children to get them off the streets and to have a new life."

“A lot of kids are basketball fans in their own little way and meeting these players really inspire them. They do not only get the chance PBA players but a world class and world renowned player."