Vanessa Bryant is stepping up to help her community as devastating wildfires tear through Southern California. Through the Mamba and Mambacita Foundation, she’s donating Nike shoes, socks, and other essentials to those in need.
This hits close to home for Vanessa. The first house she shared with late Lakers legend Kobe Bryant in Pacific Palisades was destroyed by these same wildfires.
“We have so many beautiful memories from living in L.A,” she shared on Instagram. “There are no words to make all the loss and devastation any better. My heart and prayers go out to everyone in LA who are affected by the fires. We love you, L.A.”
She’s not alone in helping out. LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and his wife Connie just pitched in $15 million for emergency relief.
The NBA and its players’ association are also lending a hand, donating $1 million to organizations like the American Red Cross and World Central Kitchen.
This comes at a meaningful time for the Bryant family. Just months ago, the Lakers unveiled a touching tribute to Kobe and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant outside Crypto.com Arena.
It’s the second of three planned statues honoring the basketball legend. The first one, showing Kobe during his legendary 81-point game, went up on February 8th – a date chosen to represent both his jersey numbers, 8 and 24.
The new statue captures a precious father-daughter moment. Kobe’s wearing a WNBA hoodie and an Eagles beanie – a Christmas gift from Gigi – while kissing the top of her head.
“That was a moment he shared with Gigi that will always be a powerful representation of the movement towards equality,” Vanessa explained. Kobe was actually the first NBA player to wear that orange WNBA hoodie to a major game, showing his support for women’s sports.
A plaque beneath the statue reads “Gianna Bryant, Inspirational Icon for Girls in Sports” and “Kobe Bryant, Proud Supporter of Women in Sports.”
The timing feels especially poignant – as Vanessa continues their legacy of giving back to the LA community they called home.
