Pau Gasol on entering Lakers history: After everything I've experienced, I'm still dreaming

Pau Gasol was very excited as he spent time at the facilities of the Lafayette Recreation Park Center, a sports center in Los Angeles, because he knows that his work has even more importance now.

On a warm Los Angeles morning, the Spanish sports legend organized an event for the Gasol Foundation ahead of his big day on Wednesday, when the Los Angeles Lakers will retire his No.16 jersey.

During his six and a half seasons at the Californian franchise, the Spaniard helped them win two NBA rings in 2009 and 2010.

"These acknowledgements are amazing, it's hard for me to process it," Gasol reflected.

"After everything I've experienced, I'm still dreaming. It's very exciting.

"But I want all [the charity work] to have more of a journey, to translate into things that generate value to contribute to others, to those who love it the most."

Pau Gasol's jersey retirement ceremony

The Lakers will be holding a tribute for Gasol during their game against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesdays.

"It has never happened in Spanish sport, it is a great honor," he added.

"I feel supported by the people I love, sharing these unrepeatable moments.

"I want to savor it well, enjoy it slowly and share it with all the people who have been important in my career."

Gasol remembers Kobe Bryant

Gasol is a highly valued individual in the NBA world and he had a close relationship with the late great Kobe Bryant, another basketball legend for the Lakers.

"Every step I take, he is in my thoughts," Gasol stated.

"I grew as a player, I played at the highest level thanks to him.

"I did my part, but his leadership, his example, his way of reaching out to others is really what it raised my game, made me a better player and allowed me to win two championships."

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