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Kobe Bryant tried to recruit Dirk Nowitzki to the Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant once tried to recruit Dallas Mavericks center Dirk Nowitzki to join him in Los Angeles. 
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Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant once tried to recruit Dallas Mavericks center Dirk Nowitzki to join him in Los Angeles, he said during an interview at the All Star game. 

Bryant told the anecdote when asked about his relationship with the long-time face of the Mavericks franchise. He said that he part of his respect for Nowitzki comes from a shared sense of loyalty that both have shown to their team’s over their careers.

According to Bryant, he knew that Nowitzki would not leave the Mavericks during free agency, but he felt the need to at least reach out and extend the offer. 

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Bryant is currently in his 20th and final season with the Lakers, while Nowitzki has played in Dallas for 18 seasons.