More than three years after his death in a helicopter crash, Kobe Bryant’s family took the opportunity to honor him at the TCL Chinese Theatre. The late NBA star’s hands and feet were imprinted at the famous Hollywood, California, venue in 2011. On Wednesday, they were moved to a more prominent place at the venue during an emotional tribute ceremony.
Kobe's family gathered to celebrate his memory
According to People, 3-year-old Capri, 6-year-old Bianka, and 20-year-old Natalia joined their mother, Vanessa Bryant, to honor their late father. As part of the commemoration, Kobe’s existing imprints were moved to the forecourt of the theater, giving them a special place of honor amid all of the other prints left at the venue.
Natalia spoke at the event
The proud daughter, who is currently a student at the University of Southern California, shared some emotional words about her beloved father, calling him the “MVP of girl dads.”
“Being his daughter is one of the greatest joys of my life, and I hope to continue to embody and cherish the many lessons he has taught me,” the 20-year-old told the gathered crowd.
She also mentioned her little sister who was also killed in the crash
In addition to losing their patriarch, the Bryant family also lost their daughter and sister, 14-year-old Gianna. Natalia was sure to include Gigi in her tribute as she spoke about Kobe.
“Dad, you’re an icon, a legend, the storyteller, and most importantly, the best girl dad any young woman could ever dream of,” she continued. “I’m honored to be here to represent you and our family, and we are extremely proud of you. We will love you forever and always. Love, Natalia, Gianna, Bianka, Capri, and Mommy.”
Vanessa was bursting with pride over Natalia's touching words
We can’t imagine it was easy for Natalia to make that speech, and based on the post her mother made on Instagram shortly after the ceremony, it seems like she deserved to be celebrated a bit as well.
“Natalia, I know how hard it is to do what you did today,” Vanessa wrote. “We are so proud of you. Love you all.”
It's hard to believe it's been three years since Kobe's death
We can’t imagine what it’s been like for the Bryant family — and all of the other families who lost loved ones in the 2020 tragedy that took nine lives — but it seems like Vanessa and her children continue to find ways to honor the legacies of those they lost. Hopefully that gives them some comfort and some peace.
