Natalia Bryant Explains How Her Mom ‘Vanessa Bryant’ Honored Her Late Daughter Gigi on Her Birthday

Vanessa Bryant celebrated her late daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant on May 1, which would have been her 16th birthday, in a series of Instagram pictures. Vanessa added a heartfelt note in a video showcasing adorable doodles of the youngster and her father, Kobe Bryant. “I knew one thing was true the moment you envisaged winning a WNBA title. You were unique, “The tribute was read aloud.

“You were born into greatness, but it was never about what you inherited. It all came down to what you contributed to others. I see you battling with others who advocate for gender equality. The message concluded, “And every time someone plays her hardest, I know that’s you on the court. Basketball, I will always love you.” Vanessa also shared a photo of Gigi on the basketball court wearing a black skirt and high-heeled heels with the comment,

“Love you always! Happy Birthday, Gianna. #Mambacita ” Vanessa Bryant paid tribute to her late daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant on May 1, which would have been her 16th birthday, in a series of Instagram pictures. Vanessa added a heartfelt note in a video showcasing adorable doodles of the youngster and her father, Kobe Bryant. “I knew one thing was genuine the moment you envisaged winning a WNBA title.

You were special,” the tribute read. “You came from greatness, but it was never about what you inherited. It was about what you gave to others. When someone stands up for gender equality, I see you fighting alongside of them. The message concluded, “And every time someone plays her hardest, I know that’s you on the court. Love you always, Basketball.”

Vanessa also posted a pic of Gigi wearing a black skirt and high-heel boots on the basketball court with the caption, “Love you always! Happy Birthday, Gianna. #Mambacita” Kobe and Gianna were killed in January 2020 when their private helicopter crashed while they were on their way to a teen basketball tournament at the former NBA star’s Mamba Sports Academy near Thousand Oaks, Calif.

Earlier this month, Vanessa celebrated what would have been her 21st wedding anniversary to Kobe with a heartfelt social media post. “I love you forever, baby,” the 39-year-old wrote on Instagram on April 18. “Happy Anniversary @kobebryant #21.” In addition to Gianna, Kobe and Vanessa have three other daughters—Natalia, now 19; Bianka, now 5; and Capri, now 2. “Kobe was her one and only,” a source previously told E! News. “Vanessa’s main focus is always the girls.”