Vanessa Bryant paid tribute to her late daughter Gianna Bryant on what would have been her 19th birthday, July 1. Gianna tragically lost her life alongside her father, basketball legend Kobe Bryant, in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. The crash killed seven others, including Gianna’s teammates and their families.
On Mai’s birthday, Vanessa Bryant, Gianna’s mother, celebrates her life the same way she does for Gianna each year. This touching tribute has blossomed into a beloved tradition since their tragic loss. This year, Nike issued limited release Nike Kobe 8 “Mambacita” sneakers in honor of Gianna’s flipped legacy—one that she may still have time to fulfill. The design beautifully incorporates the CDFIs’ strong butterfly brand, done in bold, clean black, white and gold. It represents Gianna’s spirit and features her trademark name Gigi embroidered across the back of shoes. This release comes right on the heels of what would have been Gianna’s milestone 18th birthday.
Gianna was an aspiring basketball star and played on a team with her friends Payton Chester and Alyssa Altobelli. Under the mentorship of her coach, Christina Mauser — who perished alongside her in the crash — Gianna showed great promise and love for the game. Vanessa Bryant often recalls her daughter’s affectionate nature, stating, “My baby girl. Gianna Bryant is an amazingly sweet and gentle soul. She was always thoughtful. She always kissed me good night and kissed me good morning.”
Social media, Vanessa shared her feelings of love and loss for Gianna in a touching post.
“Happy birthday, Gigi! Mommy loves and misses you more than I could ever express. I love you Gianna. ❤️19 ♉️ 5/1 #Mambacita.” – Vanessa Bryant
In addition to the sneaker release, Vanessa’s tribute included a poignant social media post reflecting on her daughter’s vibrant spirit and the void left in their lives. Less than a month after the tragic crash, she had already honored both Gianna and Kobe at a memorial service, marking an indelible moment of remembrance for family, friends, and fans alike.
As time goes on, Vanessa Bryant, still grieving, has been doing everything she can to keep her daughter’s memory and legacy alive with tributes and celebrations honoring Gianna’s life. The annual award honors their enduring devotion, a love that knows no bounds. Even after the tragedy that changed their lives forever, that faith shines through.
