Kobe Bryant
 

Kobe Bryant is a global phenomenon. The retiring superstar spent much of his childhood in Italy, giving him a European foothold. In the Pacific, Bryant has taken an infatuation with China and become one of the nation's most beloved sports heroes.

In a new Nike commercial in China, Bryant has the opportunity to make a lasting statement to his fans.

In Kobe-esque form, Bryant advises the Chinese, " You should hate me because I gave you 4 a.m. Because I pushed you when no one else would. Hate me because I demanded greatness."

The Chinese have serenaded Bryant at the Olympics and on Nike trips. This ad is a chilling way to acknowledge his overseas fans.

This commercial goes hand-in-hand with Nike's "Mamba Day," coming up on April 13, the day of Bryant's final game.

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