Vanessa Bryant Shares Heartbreaking Tribute to Daughter Gianna on What Would Have Been Her 19th Birthday, Five Years After Her Tragic Death
On May 1st, 2025, Vanessa Bryant shared an emotional and heart-wrenching tribute to her late daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, on what would have been her 19th birthday. The moment was both tender and sorrowful, as Vanessa reflected on the profound loss she’s felt since the tragic helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, that claimed the lives of her husband, basketball legend Kobe Bryant, their daughter Gianna, and seven others.
Vanessa, 42, took to Instagram early Wednesday morning to honor her daughter’s memory with a series of photos and a touching message. Among the images were cherished memories of Gianna smiling at basketball games, hugging her father, and laughing with her sisters. Vanessa’s message was a mix of raw grief and deep love—a mother’s heart laid bare for the world.
“Happy 19th Birthday, my sweet Gigi. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about you. I miss your smile, your laugh, your energy, your heart,” Vanessa began. “You were destined for greatness, and even in your short 13 years, you managed to change lives. I wish I could hold you again, kiss your cheeks, and tell you just how proud I am to be your mommy.”
The post resonated with millions, including fans, friends, and celebrities, many of whom offered words of comfort and support in the comments. Stars like Ciara, Kelly Rowland, and Gabrielle Union expressed their love for Vanessa and admiration for her strength. “We love you, V,” wrote Ciara, adding heart and dove emojis. “Thinking of you and your beautiful angel today.”
In her post, Vanessa also described Gianna’s growing passion for basketball and how she dreamed of one day playing for the University of Connecticut (UConn) and eventually the WNBA. “You were going to change women’s sports, baby girl,” Vanessa wrote. “You were already inspiring so many young girls to believe in themselves. I see your legacy continuing through them.”
Gianna Bryant, affectionately known as “Gigi,” had inherited her father’s fierce competitive spirit and love for basketball. The father-daughter duo were often seen courtside at NBA games, and Kobe frequently spoke of her talent and vision for the future. Many fans came to know Gianna as the “Mambacita,” a nickname that honored her father’s famous “Black Mamba” persona.
To mark Gianna’s birthday, Vanessa also announced a special initiative through the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation. This year, in Gianna’s honor, the foundation will fund scholarships for 19 young female athletes from underprivileged communities, giving them access to training, mentorship, and opportunities in sports. “This is what Gigi would have wanted,” Vanessa noted. “She believed in lifting others up.”
In a poignant gesture, Vanessa also posted a video montage on Instagram Stories, set to the song Somewhere Over the Rainbow, featuring clips of Gianna throughout the years—from her early childhood to her blossoming teenage years as a rising basketball star. The video ended with the words: “Forever in our hearts. We love you, Gigi.”
The tragedy that claimed Gianna and Kobe Bryant’s lives remains one of the most heartbreaking moments in recent memory. Vanessa has since become a symbol of strength and resilience, continuing her late husband and daughter’s legacies through charity work, public appearances, and advocacy for women in sports.
While the pain of her loss remains palpable, Vanessa has found purpose in ensuring that Gianna’s spirit continues to inspire the next generation. “I carry you with me in everything I do,” she wrote in closing. “I love you more than I could ever explain. Happy birthday, Gigi. We miss you so much.”
As the world joined Vanessa in remembering Gianna Bryant on her 19th birthday, the tributes poured in from every corner—athletes wearing Gigi’s number 2 jersey, murals adorned with flowers and balloons, and fans sharing their memories and grief. It was a testament to the immense impact Gianna had, even in her short life.
Five years may have passed, but the love for Gianna endures. And through Vanessa’s unwavering devotion, Gigi’s legacy not o
nly lives on—it shines.