Vanessa Bryant Shares Heartfelt Birthday Tribute to Daughter Natalia Bryant
On January 19, 2025, Vanessa Bryant took to Instagram to celebrate the 22nd birthday of her eldest daughter, Natalia Bryant. In a touching post, she expressed her deep love and pride for Natalia, calling her “kindness, light, and love personified.”
“To my first born, I love you so much!” Vanessa wrote in the caption of a heartfelt video montage featuring Natalia. “I’m so proud of the beautiful, smart, talented, and loving young woman you are! Happy 22nd birthday @nataliabryant !!! We love you so much, Nani-Banani! 😘❤️🎉🎂”
The affectionate nickname “Nani-Banani” highlights the close bond between the mother and daughter, which has been evident throughout the years, especially in the wake of the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant in 2020. Despite the challenges, Vanessa and her daughters have remained strong, supporting one another while carrying on Kobe and Gigi’s legacy.
Natalia, currently a student at the University of Southern California, has been making waves both in academics and the fashion industry. Over the past year, she has gained recognition for her work as a model, making her runway debut with Versace at Milan Fashion Week and leading Victoria’s Secret PINK’s spring campaign. With her grace and poise, Natalia continues to carve her own path while honoring her father’s legacy.
Vanessa’s heartfelt post quickly gained attention, drawing thousands of likes and comments from celebrities, family friends, and fans. Among those who sent birthday wishes were WNBA legends Candace Parker and Lisa Leslie.
Parker wrote, “Happy Birthday Nani!!!!!!❤️ ur twin,” referring to the strong resemblance between Natalia and her late father, Kobe Bryant. Leslie also shared an emotional message, stating, “Heart Melt❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Happy Birthday Princess @nataliabryant. When I tell you we are so proud and happy seeing you thrive! Continued blessings and many more with love💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕.”
Natalia is the eldest of Kobe and Vanessa Bryant’s four daughters. She was followed by Gianna, who tragically passed away alongside Kobe in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. The couple’s younger daughters, Bianka and Capri, continue to grow under Vanessa’s care, with their mother often sharing heartwarming family moments on social media.
In past interviews, Natalia has spoken about her father’s influence on her life, describing him as a mentor and role model. She has shared that Kobe’s lessons in hard work, determination, and kindness continue to shape her decisions. As she celebrates another milestone, Natalia’s resilience and strength serve as an inspiration to many, proving that she carries her father’s legacy with grace and dignity.
Vanessa has made it a priority to honor Kobe and Gigi in every way possible, ensuring that their memory remains alive through their family’s love and achievements. Her touching tribute to Natalia reflects not only the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter but also the strength that has defined the Bryant family over the years.
As Natalia embarks on another year of success and growth, her family, friends, and fans continue to support her journey, celebrating her accomplishments while remembering the everlasting impact of Kobe Bryant’s legacy.
