From 1998 to Forever, A Timeline | How Kobe Bryant Became a Filipino Icon

Credit: Tuloy Don Bosco Foundation, 1998

Kobe Bryant wasn’t just a basketball icon, he was a cultural phenomenon in the Philippines. In a country where basketball is practically a religion, Kobe’s name is spoken with the reverence of a saint. To millions of Filipino fans, he wasn’t just a player; he was an idol, an inspiration, and a symbol of excellence. Over the years, Kobe’s deep connection with the Philippines only grew stronger through his multiple visits, heartfelt interactions, and genuine love for his fans. It would not be an exaggeration when we say Kobe Bryant showed Philippines love more than any other NBA legend, and in turn, Filipinos loved him back more than any other.

The Philippines is one of the most basketball-obsessed countries in the world, and Kobe Bryant was the epitome of the sport’s greatness. Filipinos saw in Kobe the values they hold dear: hard work (sipag), determination (tiyaga), and heart (puso). From the streets of Manila to the courts of small barangays, Kobe’s jerseys, whether the Lakers' iconic purple and gold or his #24 and #8—were everywhere. Even in remote provinces, kids shouted “Kobe!” when taking their jump shots.

Credit: Tuloy Don Bosco Foundation, 1998

But Kobe wasn’t just an icon from afar. He made the effort to be present for his Filipino fans, visiting the country several times throughout his career- six official occasions to be exact. And because of this, he was and is beloved more than any other in basketball history. Without a doubt, more than Magic Johnson. Michael Jordan. Lebron James. And even before he cemented his greatness in NBA history.

And it all started during Kobe Bryant’s first visit to the Philippines in 1998, when he was just 19 years old and rising in the NBA on a promotional tour with Adidas. Even then, without the status of his legendary career just yet, his magnetic charisma and love for the game resonated with the Filipino crowd. It was the start of a lifelong bond between the young superstar and the basketball-crazed nation- he was charming, wore the barong on plenty occasions, and tried his hand (well, feet) in his fame tinikling footage.

He returned several more times over the years, with each visit strengthening his connection with his fans.

In 2007, Kobe partnered with Nike to hold a basketball clinic in Manila. Dubbed the “Kobe Academy,” the event showcased his commitment to sharing his knowledge and skills with young Filipino athletes. He didn’t just demonstrate drills, he motivated attendees with his signature message of hard work and perseverance. For many young players, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In July 2009, Kobe was back as he embarked on a five-city Nike Asia Tour, with Manila as his inaugural stop. On July 21, he arrived in the Philippines, marking his third official visit to the country. During his stay, Kobe conducted a basketball clinic at the PhilSports Arena, engaging with young Filipino athletes and sharing his expertise. He also visited the Gawad Kalinga community, demonstrating his commitment to social causes.

During the 2011 NBA lockout, Kobe participated in an exhibition game at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, playing alongside NBA stars like Derrick Rose and Chris Paul against a selection of Filipino players. The sold-out event was nothing short of electric. Kobe’s competitive spirit was on full display, as was his joy in entertaining and connecting with the Filipino crowd. Kobe once said in an interview with VICE Magazine, "I enjoy sharing the game of basketball and, you know, Manila, of all the places that I've traveled, this has so much passion and enthusiasm for the game. That's why I love coming back because I enjoy being around kids. I enjoy being around people who have the same passion (as I do).”

Credit: Jay Directo, AFP

In August 2013, Kobe visited Manila again as part of a promotional tour for Lenovo Mobile. This marked his sixth visit to the country, underscoring his enduring connection with Filipino fans. While it was only a one day tour, it was jam packed: he had a press conference at Resorts World Manila discussing his partnership with Lenovo, and then continued on to the Mall of Asia where he did a meet and greet with fans at the Lenovo store promoting their new mobile phone models. Kobe's visit this year also coincided with the Philippines celebrating Gilas Pilipinas' qualification for the FIBA World Cup after a 35-year hiatus. He congratulated the team and offered words of encouragement to aspiring basketball players in the country.

Courtesy: Lenovo PH

In 2016, Kobe made another memorable trip to the Philippines for his Mamba Mentality Tour, promoting his philosophy of relentless self-improvement. He addressed thousands of fans, sharing stories from his career and urging them to adopt the same discipline and determination in their own lives. During this visit, Kobe’s humility and willingness to engage with fans left an indelible mark. “You don’t need to be the tallest or the strongest,” he told aspiring players. “What matters is how much heart you have.”

Kobe’s affinity for Filipino fans was genuine and mutual. He often expressed his admiration for their passion and knowledge of basketball. In interviews, he would mention how impressed he was by their energy and enthusiasm. “Filipino fans are some of the most dedicated I’ve ever met,” he said. “Their love for basketball is contagious.”

Fans, in turn, reciprocated this love by honoring Kobe in unique ways. His image became a staple in street art, with murals popping up in cities like Manila and Quezon City. Local basketball leagues often named tournaments after him, and his name was a constant chant during games.

When news of Kobe Bryant’s tragic death broke in January 2020, the Philippines mourned as if they had lost one of their own. Vigils and tributes sprang up across the country. The Tenement, a court mural in Taguig City, depicting Kobe and his daughter Gianna, became a pilgrimage site for fans who wanted to pay their respects.

Credit: ABS-CBN News, Tenement Visual Artists in Taguig City.

Valenzuela City even inaugurated a new community center and basketball court named in honor of Kobe Bryant just hours before the heartbreaking news of the NBA legend's passing was announced.

Credit: ABS-CBN News

More than three years later, Kobe’s legacy continues to inspire Filipinos. His work ethic, his message of perseverance, and his love for the game remain a guiding light for athletes and dreamers alike. In every basketball court across the country, you can still hear his name being called when players attempt a tough shot.

Kobe Bryant’s relationship with the Philippines was more than just that of a superstar and his fans. It was a mutual admiration built on shared values and a love for the game. Kobe may be gone, but in the hearts of Filipinos, the Mamba Mentality lives on.

As the world remembers Kobe Bryant on his death anniversary, the Philippines celebrates the special bond they had with the man who was more than an athlete. He was an idol, an inspiration, and a beloved part of Filipino basketball culture.

Mamba Forever.