Vanessa Bryant will always be there for Kobe Bryant. The Los Angeles Lakers legend spent 20 years in the league but he left a legacy that would be remembered for 100 years more to come. But April 18 is not the day to celebrate his on-court achievements. Today is just for Bryant and the love he had for his wife Vanessa.

The 41-year-old shared nostalgic pictures of the two and penned a heartrending message for her late husband, remembering their 23rd wedding anniversary. It is a special and emotional day for Vanessa. Her daughters also joined in to make her smile.

While the eldest presented a big bouquet of red roses to her mother, Vanessa and Kobe’s youngest Capri and Bianca crafted handmade cards for their mother. Both the cards were to wish their mother on her anniversary. The businesswoman and philanthropist shared a snap of all their gifts together in one frame and wrote, “Thank you.” 

It will always be hard to accept that the Lakers legend is not with us. It has been four years since the tragic accident that claimed the lives of nine people, including Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant. Even to this day, a part of us wishes that he was with us. Vanessa too took to her social media to wish her husband on their special day.

Kobe Bryant’s wife Vanessa celebrates their 23rd anniversary with a heartwarming tribute

They first met in 1999, fell in love with each other, and decided to tie the knot in 2001. The two share four children, Natalia, Gianna, the gem we lost, Capri, and Bianca. Vanessa shared a collage of some of the adorable and cherished moments. It appears to be one of their date nights.

While Bryant donned a suit, Vanessa complemented his look in a golden dress. The post was captioned, “Happy Anniversary @kobebryant ❤️ #23.” Along with fans, Natalia and Carmelo Anthony’s ex-wife also commented on the post to show some love.

Vanessa shared a few nostalgic pictures on her Instagram story, too. One picture shows her sitting inside a car, while Bryant stands close to her holding a big bouquet of roses that resembles the one that Natalia gave her. It appears that the model wanted to make her mother feel special with the same gesture as Kobe in his absence.

Earlier this year, the Bryant family came together to pay tribute to the legend with his 19-foot bronze statue next to the Crypto.com arena. It shows the Los Angeles Lakers legend in his iconic pose after his 81-point game in 2006. The Black Mamba‘s legacy will live on.