"I remember exploring Italy together"

Tamika Catchings, daughter of NBA player Harvey Catchings spent a year in Italy at the same time as Kobe and become lifelong friends.

She remembers some of the moments she spent with the young Kobe Bryant when she was a child.

Tamika would have a similar journey path to the Lakers star, and become a two-time Women's NBA champion and Olympic gold medallist.

(Photo Credit: ESPN 'Italian Imports')