While NBA players might be physical freaks of nature, they all follow various traditions on the court. Whether it be LeBron James‘ iconic powder toss or Stephen Curry‘s tunnel shot, each star puts their own spin. However, traditions involving families always leave your heart warmed. It might be the Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic tying his wedding band to his shoelace or it might be the one Kobe Bryant shared with his daughters.

Notably, Kobe’s wife Vanessa is still carrying his tradition on to this day.

Vanessa continues Kobe Bryant’s tradition

The beginning of a new school year can always be a tough time for individuals. As you grow older, the day becomes easier, and even something to look forward to. However, parents will always try to make the day special in their own way. Whether it be a party or a favorite meal, they try to contribute in any way they can. Maybe an extra few dollars in pocket money, or maybe an old-fashioned gift.

In the case of Kobe, the day brought along with it a ritual.

Each year, his daughters would receive a bouquet of flowers along with a note. “Happy first day of school! Love you always, Daddy,” the note read. As a new year for 20-year-old Natalia Bryant gets underway, the tradition continued.

Despite Kobe not being present, the tradition continued due to Vanessa. Natalia revealed the tradition in her story, thanking Mrs. Bryant. Vanessa too shared the moment, with a few hearts sprinkled in. The moment was too sweet to put into words, inducing tears all around.

Read More: Vanessa Bryant and Her Journey of Keeping Kobe Bryant and Daughter Gigi?s Legacy Alive

It’s yet another testament to the Mamba‘s greatest honor.

Girl Dad, Kobe Bryant

When he walked in at 17 years old, with his parents’ signature on his first contract, no one knew what to expect from him. Surely, no one could predict the heights the Los Angeles Lakers legend would climb to, those that would land his statue outside their iconic stadium.

Over his career, we saw many shades of Bryant. From young to brash, to scoring machine, to 81-point Kobe, to a killer, to MVP, to Champion, to a veteran, to 60-point swansong Kobe, to the Mamba. But through each of his many personalities, no honor brought him greater joy than being a dad.

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While he even won an Oscar for his short film, his bio ever since Gianna came to life, read, “Girl Dad.” Perhaps that is why it is not his iconic fadeaway, but a silhouette holding hands with Gianna that’s the image chosen for his statue.

A legendary man, an inspiration to millions, a hero to every NBA fan and player, and an adoring dad, Kobe Bryant may not be with us in person. But in his aura, Bean lives on.