How Vanessa Bryant Still Keeps Kobe and Gianna’s Memories Alive Years After Fatal Helicopter Crash
It’s been more than six years since basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, were killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. In addition to heartfelt tributes, Vanessa Bryant is carrying Kobe and Gianna’s legacy forward and inspiring others.
Vanessa remembered Kobe and Gianna on the sixth anniversary of their deaths with an emotional tribute via her Instagram Stories. She posted a throwback pic of Kobe alongside Gianna and added two red hearts.
After losing both her husband and their daughter, Vanessa channeled her pain into purpose as she pushed on raising their other children, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri.
To honor Kobe and Gigi’s legacy, Vanessa relaunched the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, which empowers underserved youth by providing them with sports opportunities and continuing Kobe’s commitment to mentorship.
When Vanessa settled a lawsuit against Los Angeles County over first responders taking graphic photos after the crash of the human remains, she donated all $28.85 million to the foundation. She also created the Gianna Bryant Scholarship Award, which supports young individuals who demonstrate “Gigi’s Mamba Mentality” of resilience, commitment to equal opportunities, and inspiring others.
And in 2025, Vanessa released the Mamba & Mambacita Forever book featuring over 100 murals and stories that honor the father and daughter’s lasting impact.
“As difficult as it was to work on this book due to the painful reminder it represents, I’m glad I did it, ” Vanessa told People at the time. “The murals of Kobe and Gianna are all so beautiful.”
Along with Kobe and Gigi, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah Chester, Payton Chester, Christina Mauser, and pilot Ara Zobayan were killed when the chopper went down on Jan. 26, 2020.
