
via Getty
From left Lakers Vladimir Radmanovic, Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol share a few laughs with a big lead against the Spurs at the Staples Center Sunday. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

via Getty
From left Lakers Vladimir Radmanovic, Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol share a few laughs with a big lead against the Spurs at the Staples Center Sunday. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
After a spectacular show through the entire month, the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup is all set to conclude on September 10. To witness the enthralling event, several stars have begun to descend towards the destination. As has been the case till now, the remaining final round games?will be held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines. Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant?s long-time friend, who became the global ambassador of the federation this year, recently graced the people of the Philippines with his presence.
With four teams vying for the title of ‘World Champions’, the excitement level has reached a fever pitch.
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Global brand ambassador and former Lakers star arrived in Manila
Brand ambassadors Pau Gasol has already arrived in the city to fulfill his duties as the representatives of the federation. And he isn’t alone. Joining him was fellow NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, and more. As they eagerly look forward to the final games, the athletes have begun interacting with the fans.?

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Lakers Pau Gasol hugs Kobe Bryant late in the 4th quarter as Nuggets Carmelo Anthony looks on in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals at the Staples Center Tuesday. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
The official FIBA Instagram handle shared a picture of Gasol’s interaction with the fans and captioned it, ?Pau checking in.? Gasol has long represented his nation at this stage. Back in 2002, his debut with Spain was one of the most memorable ones, where he led the team to the fifth position. But it was in 2006 when he made history with the team.
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The 2x NBA champion won the FIBA World Cup, beating Japan in the final. He averaged 21.2 points and 9.4 rebounds per game and won the MVP title. The 43-year-old was instrumental in leading Spain to win silver medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics as well.?
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Just weeks after getting inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Gasol was named an ambassador. While his achievements in the NBA are great, his impact on European basketball is insurmountable and his off-court activities have earned praise as well.
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Pau Gasol?s investments in Noble causes
While Gasol and Bryant were great teammates, it can be argued that they were better friends. The two, and their families, continued to spend a lot of time together and Gasol is also the Godfather to Bryant’s daughter. Apart from basketball, Gasol has taken a keen interest in several investments as well.
In an interview, he revealed that he has spent more than $225,000,000 on investments. That too on numerous noble causes. Some of his investments include fields of health and wellness. As Gasol continues his humanitarian efforts, his impact will be felt for generations to come.
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What are your thoughts on Gasol’s donations? Let us know in the comments below.
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