Gianna Bryant would have turned 16 this past Sunday (May 1). Vanessa Bryant and Nike created a unique homage to her in her memory, based on Kobe Bryant’s Oscar-winning cartoon, Dear Basketball. “Dear Gianna,” Vanessa said in the minute-long video. I knew one thing was true the moment you envisaged winning a WNBA championship. You were unique.
You were born into grandeur, but it was never about your ancestors. It all came down to what you contributed to others. When someone stands up for gender equality, I see you fighting alongside them, and every time someone gives their all on the court, I know it’s you. I will always love you.” Vanessa also paid homage to GiGi on Instagram, including a famous shot of her chucking a basketball in heels.
It was never about what she got from basketball. It was always about what she gave back. Gigi gave inspiration to her teammates, her mentors, and the next generation. #PlayGigisWay #mambamambacitasports pic.twitter.com/u7R3EnknqP
— Nike (@Nike) May 1, 2022
She also uploaded a video of Kobe talking about Gianna’s excellence and how she was continuing on his legacy. Natalia, the oldest of the Bryant sisters, also sent her sister a birthday note. “Happy sixteenth birthday, my favorite gigi,” she wrote. “I adore you to the moon and back forever and always.” Bryant, Vanessa
Nike took out this full page ad today, on what would’ve been Gianna Bryant’s 16th birthday:
“Dear Gianna” 📄 pic.twitter.com/sAatT1EVbk
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) May 1, 2022
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 and every time someone plays their hardest, I know that’s you on the court. Love you, always.” Vanessa also shared a series of photo tributes to GiGi on Instagram, including a famous picture of her tossing up a basketball in heels. She even shared a video compilation of Kobe speaking to Gianna’s greatness and how she was carrying on his legacy.
The “Mambacita Sweet 16” Kobe 6 is now the first release under Nike’s new contract with the Bryant Estate.
Celebrating what would have been Gigi’s 16th birthday, its packaging includes a personal note from Vanessa Bryant.
Profits will go to the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation. pic.twitter.com/LOk96OtuEm
— Front Office Sports (@FOS) May 1, 2022
It’s the first release under the new contract with the Bryant estate, with all proceeds going towards the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation. The packaging includes a personalized note from Vanessa. Furthermore, the Kobe and Gianna Bryant Dream Court is officially open at Pearson Park in Anaheim, CA.
