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Vanessa Bryant posts heart-wrenching birthday message to her late daughter Gigi

Gigi would have been graduating high school

Four years have ed since Kobe and Gigi's tragic death
Four years have ed since Kobe and Gigi's tragic deathLAPRESSE

Four years have ed since the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of NBA legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant, yet their memories remain vivid in the hearts of many. On what would have been Gianna's 18th birthday, Vanessa Bryant, Kobe's widow, took to Instagram to pay a touching tribute to her late daughter, ensuring that her spirit lives on.

In a poignant video montage shared on Instagram, Vanessa commemorated Gianna's birthday, expressing her enduring love and deep sense of loss. "Happy birthday to my gorgeous girl, Gigi! I love you. I miss you. I'm so proud of you," Vanessa wrote in the caption, underscoring the milestones Gianna would have reached in 2024, including graduating high school and embarking on the journey of college selection.

Vanessa's heartfelt message also acknowledged the transformative impact Gianna and Kobe had on women's sports. She highlighted their dedication to fostering change in the sports landscape, continuing to inspire young women and girls worldwide. "You continue to motivate me and inspire young women and girls daily. I love you always, mommy," Vanessa expressed, encapsulating the enduring bond between a mother and her daughter.

In addition to the emotional tribute, Vanessa collaborated with Nike to release a special edition of the Nike Kobe 8 "Mambacita" sneaker in honor of Gianna's birthday. The new colorway of the shoe features a striking black, white, and gold butterfly theme, symbolizing Gianna's vibrant spirit and the transformative impact she had on highlighting women's sports. The Nike Kobe 8 "Mambacita" is released on May 1, coinciding with Gianna's birthday, as a testament to her enduring legacy.

Nike, in a caption accompanying the release, emphasized Gianna's role in shining a spotlight on women's sports and commemorated her 18th birthday. "On 5.1, we celebrate Gianna 'Gigi' Bryant's 18th birthday and the transformational impact she had on highlighting women's sports with the release of the Kobe 8 Protro 'Mambacita,'" Nike stated, paying homage to Gianna's ion for athletics and her commitment to empowering female athletes.

Four years have ed since their tragic death

The tragic helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, not only claimed the lives of Kobe and Gianna Bryant but also seven of their friends. Following a yearlong investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board, the crash was attributed primarily to pilot error, casting a shadow of sorrow over the basketball world and beyond.

As Vanessa Bryant continues to honor the memories of Kobe and Gianna Bryant, her unwavering strength and resilience serve as a source of inspiration for countless individuals worldwide. Through heartfelt tributes and meaningful collaborations, Vanessa ensures that the legacies of Kobe and Gianna endure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond.

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