NBA Europe Live - Minnesota Timberwolves v LA Lakers
Venue: O2 Arena, London Date: Monday 4 October Tip-off: 2000 BST
Coverage: Live commentary on BBC 5 live sports extra and live on ESPN

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant has told BBC London 94.9 that he considered taking up a career in football - as a goalkeeper or striker.

The shooting guard, regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, said: "I really thought about it, but basketball was where my heart was."

He also described Great Britain's Luol Deng as a "phenomenal talent".

Bryant is in London ahead of the Lakers's NBA Europe game with Minnesota Timberwolves at the 02 Arena on Monday.

Coach Phil Jackson has said that Bryant is only likely to play 15 minutes of the game while he continues his recovery from knee surgery.

But Bryant, who has accumulated a string of NBA accolades during his career, revealed that he is excited to perform in front of a packed London crowd.

He said he has a great affinity for the city, and is particularly enjoying the fact he doesn't get recognised as much as he does at home.

"It's been great, I've even enjoyed the weather, the rain is soothing. We're lucky if we see two days of rain all summer in California.

"I'm not sure what to expect, I'm excited and thrilled for the opportunity, it's kind of cool to walk around London and nobody really knows who you are, that's a thrill for me.

"In terms of the game I'm excited to have the opportunity to play in front of some new fans."

With the 2012 Olympics in London getting closer, Bryant is confident that Team GB can have a positive showing, especially with Chicago Bulls star Deng at its forefront - someone for whom Bryant has a lot of admiration.

606: DEBATE I'm going to the O2 on Monday for my first taste of live NBA basketball. Any thoughts from people that have been to previous games at the O2? fabsfcsteve

"I think he's a phenomenal talent, I've always thought very highly of him. 2012 is going to be a big moment especially for basketball.

"It's something that people can look to carry over, and teach kids the beauty of the sport and continue to grow it over here."

Bryant's targets for the future are simple - just to win more championships.

But while he relaxes in the Los Angeles sunshine, he will seek the advice of his friend David Beckham - the former England football captain who plays for Major League Soccer side LA Galaxy - to hone his skills between the sticks.

"We talk quite a bit actually, that would be something for the experience of it - me being in the goal and having him take penalty kick after penalty kick, it'd be great to see that," the Lakers star added.

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