Kobe Bryant Death Anniversary: The Sweetest Bryant Family Moments

A year after Kobe Bryant and his 13-year old daughter Gianna died in a helicopter crash, fans have found different ways to remember the father and daughter. Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow and Gianna’s mother, showed her strength when she sent them a message during the public memorial service at the Staples Center in February, telling the Los Angeles Lakers legend to take care of Gianna and she will take care of their three other daughters.

“God knew they couldn’t be on this earth without each other. He had to bring them home to him together,” Vanessa said in regards to the tragic loss of both Kobe and Gianna, who died alongside 7 others in the crash on Jan. 26, 2020. “Babe, you take care of our Gigi. And I got Nati, Bibi and Coco. We’re still the best team. We love and miss you, Boo Boo and Gigi. May you both rest in peace and have fun in heaven until we meet again one day. We love you both and miss you. Forever and always. Mommy.”

Ever since that tragic day, Vanessa has continued to share Bryant family memories and photos with fans on social media, giving a glimpse into what their lives were like before everything changed. Here’s a look at the sweetest moments from the Bryant family, as shared by Vanessa.

Family Portrait

This photo was shared by Vanessa days after Kobe and Gianna died. Along with the photo she wrote a statement thanking fans for their love and support: “There aren’t enough words to describe our pain right now. I take comfort in knowing that Kobe and Gigi both knew that they were so deeply loved.”

Father-Daughter time

Here’s a look at Kobe and Gianna at a Lakers game. Gianna played basketball and was looking to play for UConn in college in a few years. Kobe was the coach for her team and he would constantly teach Gianna the game. Many think that Gianna would have been a legendary college and pro player.

Halloween

This photo was taken during Halloween 2019 and the Bryant family was dressed as the characters from The Wizard of Oz. The Instagram post received over 1.5 million likes and fans commented with heart emojis. 

Mom and Daughters

Here’s a look at Vanessa with her daughters. In the caption, she wrote: “Natalia, Gianna, Bianka and Capri, Mommy loves you more than you will ever know. May God Bless you, always.”

Mother’s Day

Kobe posted this photo on Mother’s Day last year. In the caption, he wrote: “Happy Mother’s Day (Vanessa Bryant) we love you and thank you for all that you do for our family. You are the foundation of all that we hold dear. I love you.”

Husband and Wife

Kobe posted this during the couple’s anniversary in 2019. They got married in 2001 and while they have had their rough patches, they have been a strong couple. Based on what Vanessa said during her eulogy for Kobe, their love will last forever. 

Thanksgiving

The Bryant family was relaxing during Thanksgiving and it looks like they have a very enjoyable meal. With Kobe retired, he had the opportunity to enjoy the holiday and not have to worry about getting ready for a game. 

Christmas

The Bryant family also had fun during Christmas 2019. This was a special one because it was Capri’s first Christmas. One fan commented: “I’m crying every day. I love you guys fly high rest in peace have fun in heaven.”

Kobe and Gianna

In a set of photos and videos Vanessa posted in December 2020, Kobe and Gianna sit courtside at a Lakers game against the Dallas Mavericks. Photos from that day have since been widely published with Kobe holding his arm around his young basketball star daughter. “My gorgeous Gigi and handsome boo-boo. Mambacita and Black Mamba forever,” Vanessa captioned the post.