Kobe Bryant was a man of many talents. Not only was he an incredible athlete with a top-notch sense of discipline, but he was also an exceptional leader, mentor, creative and businessman. Today, we remember the late, great NBA legend for what he loved doing most – being a devoted father and husband.
Kobe and his wife Vanessa Bryant met in 1999 on the set of a music video. They exchanged numbers and soon had their first date at Disneyland. Six months later, they became engaged and in 2001, they wed in a Catholic Church ceremony. Over the years, they went on to have four daughters: Natalia, Gianna, Bianka and Capri.
On January 26, 2020 Kobe and Gianna Bryant tragically died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. In honor of his birthday today (Aug. 23), Vanessa shared a tribute to her late husband, which served as a reminder of just how special he was to the ones who knew him best.
“Thank you for loving me enough to last several lifetimes,” she writes. “In every lifetime I would choose YOU. Thank you for showing me what real love is. Thank YOU for everything. I know my Gigi is celebrating you like she always has on our special days. I miss my thoughtful princess so much! Natalia, Gianna, Bianka, Capri and I wish you a happy birthday my love. I love you for now, forever and for always.”
In honor of Kobe Bryant’s birthday, we’ve rounded up 24 of his most precious family photos.
The post 24 Photos Of Kobe Bryant, The Father And Family Man appeared first on Essence.
