For many of his fans, Kobe Bryant was an icon, a star, and a role model on and off the court. But for his family, he’s a father who has done everything for them. That’s why Vanessa Bryant, the wife of the late LA Lakers legend, paid tribute to her husband on Saturday by celebrating the 16th anniversary of his fourth NBA title win in time for this year’s Father’s day celebration.
She shared multiple stories on social media as she honored the Black Mamba. Kobe led his team to victory over the Orlando Magic and was named the Finals MVP in 2009.
Vanessa Bryant posted four stories celebrating Kobe’s core memory, resharing a video from a fan account in the first slide. In the clip, Kobe Bryant was seen celebrating his fourth NBA championship in classic Mamba fashion, jumping up in the air in elation.
She then followed this story with an image of the Black Mamba and Mambacita, Gianna, from the title celebrations, as the picture displayed a short message.
“16 years ago: Kobe wins his fourth NBA championship,” it read.
Vanessa also showed her Father’s Day outfit as she wore the Kobe 6 protro, which featured a Lakers-inspired purple colorway and was never released to the public. The shoe paired well with the Daisy Duck bags, which she posted on her story.
Her final story featured a family pictured that showed Kobe posing with the Finals MVP trophy alongside his daughters Natalia and Gianna, and his wife, Vanessa.
The tribute was done just in time for Father’s Day, but most people will remember his contributions during the series, where he recorded 32.4 points and 7.4 assists per game, averaging 43.8 minutes. He went on to win back-to-back titles the following year, cementing his legacy as a Lakers and NBA legend.
“Facing Kobe was stressful”: Kobe Bryant’s former rival recalls NBA Finals matchup
As fans remembered Kobe this Father’s Day, longtime rival Paul Pierce also reflected on what it was like facing him on the biggest stage.
“If I had to sum it up in one word—just one word—facing Kobe was stressful,” Pierce said on SPEAK.
“He was at the peak of his powers… You’re going against the Mamba—the second coming of Jordan.”
Pierce continued, “I idolized Jordan, but when I looked into Mamba’s eyes, I saw Jordan’s reflection… He could go for 60 in a half. Who today can do that? I don’t think there’s anyone.”
From rivals to fans, everyone seems to agree—Kobe was different. A once-in-a-generation talent, and an unforgettable presence both on the court and at home.
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Dan has been active in sports since 2016 and has worked behind the scenes as a scriptwriter for basketball, volleyball, and other sports. At a time, Dan has also been working as a sports commentator for CBA Pilipinas. During the pandemic, he has also been actively writing betting articles for CashBet and BetNow.
