Pau Gasol has shared a lot of things about what he learned from his former Los Angeles Lakers teammate and late friend Kobe Bryant, including what it meant to be the best and greatest. However, very few knows what the Black Mamba learned from him.

The Spain international is also not sure himself–he never asked Kobe anyway. However, in an interview with Melissa Rohlin of Fox Sports, Gasol remembered a story that revealed how he has influenced Bryant in more ways than he thought.

“A close person to him told me that I taught him empathy, which is something that I guess I'm honored and proud of to share that with him,” the Lakers great said.

This is certainly a humanizing look at one of the most competitive players in NBA history. Kobe Bryant had always been considered a lethal scorer, showing no mercy to his opponents with his drive to win at all costs.

Luckily for the Mamba, he found a perfect partner, teammate and friend in Pau Gasol, who added a new dynamic in his character. There's also no better role model for him to learn empathy than Gasol. After all, the ex-Lakers forward has always been known for leading social causes and aspiring to make a difference for the community.

While Kobe is gone, it's clear his friend Pau is continuing his legacy that extends beyond the basketball court.