To understand Pau Gasol’s bond with the Bryant family, you have to go back to the kind of promise only real friends make. Years ago, Kobe Bryant once told him, “Send me your sons and I’ll teach them how to be tough, to fight, to work and go for it… I’ll send you my daughters so you can teach them about culture, awareness, things like that.” That wasn’t just words. Years later, Pau named his daughter Elisabet Gianna Gasol, a touching tribute to Kobe and Gigi. And it didn’t stop there—Vanessa Bryant is the godmother to Pau’s kids, just as Pau is godfather to Kobe’s.

However, Gasol rarely speaks about the crash that changed everything, but when he does, it hits home. “His family’s my family,” he once said. “We’ll be there all the way, through the good and bad times, loving each other and being there for each other. With all my heart, you know? I go forward, knowing he’s watching.” That connection, built on championships and grief, is what’s kept Pau close through all these years.

Naturally, that closeness shows up in the little things. Even after Kobe’s passing, Gasol never drifted away. He’s there for birthdays, holidays, Halloweens, and those spontaneous family trips—whether it’s Disneyland or a cruise around the Bay. Somewhere down the line, there’ll be opera nights. But for now? It’s about ballet classes and Barbie dolls. Because when Uncle Pau made that promise, he meant every word.

So when Natalia Bryant posted her graduation photo, proudly wearing her USC convocation dress with the caption “25’❤🎓”, it was a big moment not just for the Bryants, but for the Gasols, too. Sure, Pau couldn’t be there physically. But emotionally? He never left.

And of course, he showed love the best way he could—by reposting the moment with a simple, heartfelt message: “So proud you @nataliabryant!! #CumLaude.” Because that’s what godfathers do—they show up, even when they’re not around.

Pau Gasol’s bond with Kobe Bryant’s daughters feels like family

Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant weren’t just Lakers teammates sharing the hardwood for six seasons—they were brothers in every sense. From locker room moments to life off the court, their friendship grew strong enough to stand the test of time and heartbreak.

So when Kobe tragically passed in January 2020, Pau didn’t step back. Instead, he stepped up—becoming a rock for Vanessa Bryant and the girls. Whether it’s spending birthdays together or just casual hangouts, Gasol’s presence hasn’t wavered. He’s that constant in their lives. In fact, he even spent his own 40th birthday with them. That’s not just friendship. That’s family.

But the closeness isn’t something new. Back when he played in LA, Pau often found himself around the Bryant household, getting to know Kobe’s daughters early on. Over time, that bond only deepened. So much so, he was named godfather to Natalia Bryant, Kobe and Vanessa’s eldest daughter.

Now as a father himself, Pau just gets it. He knows how much the little things count. Whether it’s bringing over food, sending gifts, or just being there when it matters, he’s never too far. And through it all, he’s made one thing clear—this isn’t about duty, it’s about love. As far as the Bryant girls are concerned, Uncle Pau is family for life.