Kobe Bryant Would Play ‘Fairly Carefully’ in Italy


Should Kobe sign on with Virtus Bologna for a nice chunk of change, don’t expect him to go full tilt in any of the games. Reports the LA Times: “A joint statement sent out by Bologna and Bryant’s representatives acknowledged the parties were working ‘very intensely’ to strike a deal. ‘Reaching such a complex deal requires both sides’ maximum attention for every little detail,’ the statement said. ‘Everyone wants a positive outcome to the deal, the goal of which is Kobe Bryant’s presence in Italy, economic interests for the 17 clubs in Serie A and more attention for all of Italian basketball.’ Serie A would be Bryant’s new league. Any contract he signs with the Italian club would allow him to return to the NBA if the lockout ends. Bryant was in Italy last week for promotional appearances on behalf of Nike and would need to sign soon with Bologna. The season opener for Bologna is Sunday. Bryant, 33, had a procedure on an arthritic joint in his right knee in Germany in the summer. If he plays in Italy, he will probably do so ‘fairly carefully,’ according to a person with knowledge of the situation. Translation: There probably won’t be many blind crashes to the hoop or wild dunk attempts.”