The complex is the one store where celebrity sightings aren’t uncommon. On a routine visit to shop for some sneakers, Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho found himself taking a walk down his memory lane. What triggered this nostalgic moment was when Complex host Joe La Puma showed him the rare Kobe-Ronaldinho Hyper Dunk with a Barcelona colorway. These kicks are rare due to their being limited to 50 pairs globally. Kobe Bryant was a soccer fan, and Ronaldinho was his favorite. The 44-year-old relived the time when he made a prediction to Bryant, which turned out to be true.

Kobe Bryant’s and Ronaldinho Gaúcho’s friendship goes way back to 2006. When asked about his relationship with Bryant, the Brazilian mentioned, “Kobe was a great friend of mine. He was one of the greatest of all time. They were wonderful moments. Every time we met, everything we went through together… So yes, I remember it very well. And this sneaker is also very special.” This also brought back a memory of Ronaldinho making a bold prediction about a 17-year-old “Star in the Making”.

During his conversation with the Complex host, Ronaldinho was reminded of another significant moment, when he introduced a young Lionel Messi to Kobe Bryant. Recalling this moment fondly, the former Brazilian soccer player said, “Yes. Yes. We used to talk a lot. So he went to Barcelona, and I told him about a very talented boy, who had a great future ahead of him.”

In a story that gained a lot of attention years ago, Ronaldinho introduced ‘The Mamba’ to a then 17-year-old Messi during a visit to Los Angeles by FC Barcelona. “Kobe, look I’m going to introduce you to the guy who is going to be the greatest player of all time.’ 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,” Bryant himself recounted this incident and also stated that he and Ronaldinho “were good friends.”

Kobe Bryant: Love for soccer and his friendship with the legends

Kobe Bryant’s love for sports extended way beyond basketball. As Bryant’s father, the Late Joe ‘Jellybean’ Bryant, traveled to Italy due to his basketball stint, young Branty grew a liking for soccer and developed a deep connection with it. Kobe gave credit to soccer, for the footwork he learned on the soccer field, which helped his movements on the basketball court. “Upon receiving the ball you already have to have a good idea of what you’re reading in front of you and what the next move is”, said Bryant.

Bryant’s love for soccer stars like Ronaldinho was well-known, and his friendships with both Ronaldinho and Messi further solidified his connection to the sport. Bryant’s and Messi’s friendship grew over the years, with both stars expressing mutual respect and admiration for each other’s talent. They even appeared together in a famous Turkish Airlines commercial in 2012. Just weeks before his tragic passing, Bryant spoke highly of Messi, acknowledging his intelligence and skill in the field.

Ronaldinho Gaúcho’s nostalgic moment at Complex displayed his deep bond with the Los Angeles Lakers legend. Kobe Bryant’s love for sports was not only restricted to the paint but also transcended to the pitch. He forged lasting friendships with Ronaldinho and Messi based on mutual respect and admiration. Their shared memories continue to inspire and connect fans worldwide, showcasing the enduring legacy of these iconic athletes.