You can't help but want to play with your childhood heroes. Just ask Kristaps Porzingis.

The Knicks rookie -- speaking with Mike Francesa on Tuesday -- revealed who his favorite player in the NBA was and still is. Here's a hint: it's not Carmelo Anthony.

Kristaps Porzingis The Next Kevin Durant According To Phil Jackson

"My favorite player growing up was Kobe," Porzingis said. "The Lakers were my team and I still love him."

Which would help explain this:

Kristaps Porzingis Breaking The Carmelo Anthony Mold

Someone's still praying he plays alongside Kobe Bryant one day.

It's no coincidence Porzingis performed well against Bryant and the Lakers on Nov. 8. The Latvian international finished with 12 points and 10 boards. The Knicks as a whole were plus-18 with him on the court.

New York secured a 99-95 victory.

Fortunately for Porzingis, if playing with Bryant is still a dream, there's still a possibility for him to do so.

The 37-year-old has been mulling over retirement all season, but is not ready to walk away just yet, per Hollywoodlife.com. He still intends to play in the NBA next season.

Reuniting with Phil Jackson in New York will be the sell for Bryant. Playing alongside Porzingis, however, would be the attraction that seals the deal.

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