Kobe Bryant has announced that this will be his final NBA season, and the way his shooting has dipped to historically low percentages, it's tough to envision him trying to play anywhere else.

But there's an offer on the table, and it came in the form of a touching letter and a childhood photo from Viola Reggio Calabria, the Italian team Bryant's father played for many years ago. Here's part of it, via TMZ:

"Dear child of Reggio Calabria, fantastic Kobe, on this most beautiful stretch of land that is full of affection for you we close our eyes and dream." "There will always be a home for you at this great club on the Straits of Messina. Our dream might be too big but maybe it is the same dream you unknowingly had as that 8-year-old boy in the picture." "We want you to come home, to wear our colours, to represent our city, just as your father did before you. There is a black and orange family waiting for you, with the same name on the back: 'Bryant.'" "A warm hug, dear Kobe, our great basketball legend."

It's obviously a little rough to read due to the English translation, but it's clear that it's extremely complimentary and respectful of all that Bryant has accomplished.

Kobe has told everyone to chill with the farewell gifts, but this one was likely viewed as being a little more special thanks to the family connection.

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