This article first appeared in the Nov/Dec 2011 issue of World Gaming magazine.
At the Cotai Arena on 16 September a group of Macau teenagers realized a dream. The promising basketballers benefited from a one-hour coaching clinic with NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, all thanks to the Venetian Macau.
The 30 boys and girls from the Macau-China Basketball Association under twenty training team enjoyed a brief question and answer session with Bryant. Skills training and photo opportunities with the 13-time NBA All- Star followed. The participants topped off their once-in-a-lifetime experience by playing a “boys versus girls” match under the watchful eye of the Olympic gold medalist.
“Kobe Bryant is a world-class athlete of the highest caliber,” said Edward Tracy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Sands China Ltd. “His performance – both on and off the court – provides inspiration to countless fans around the world. Bringing athletes and international superstars like Bryant to Macau, along with premium international sporting events, is part of our commitment to providing the community with the very best variety of entertainment options.”
The Venetian Macau frequently hosts these community-outreach activities as part of its ongoing commitment to the citizens of Macau. Bryant too understands the importance of giving back to the community. He and his wife recently launched the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation (KVBFF), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of youth and families in need. KVBFF’s initial focus is homeless youth in the Los Angeles area.
Bryant plans on continuing his philanthropy in the future. “When I retire, I think I’ll be away from basketball in terms of the professional level, but I’ll still enjoy working with kids and teaching them the game. There are a lot of charitable things that I’m involved in, and I’ll focus on that, as I’ve focused on my game,” said Bryant.
Unless you are a big basketball fan you might not be aware of the 33 year old’s status in the game. The shooting guard is considered by some good judges to be second only to the freakishly talented Michael Jordan as the best player ever to grace the court. Kobe has been instrumental in leading his Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships. To learn more about Kobe Bryant and the Lakers, check out our Sep/Oct 2010 article “Kobe makes it five“, available on our website wgm8.com.
