Russell Wilson’s family shares a close bond with the family of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. The Giants’ new quarterback often acknowledges Bryant’s positive influence on his life. His wife, singer Ciara, is also a close friend of Vanessa Bryant, wife of the five-time NBA champion. The families are frequently seen supporting each other, especially during significant moments involving their children.

Just three days ago, Wilson, who draws inspiration from Kobe’s “Mamba Mentality,” paid a heartfelt tribute to Bryant’s daughter, Gianna, on her heavenly birthday. Gigi tragically passed away alongside her father in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020. Since then, the Bryant family has continued to receive unwavering support from the Wilsons.

Vanessa Bryant made the huge announcement on her late athlete daughter’s birthday on May 1. Soon after that, Wilson’s Grammy-winning wife could not hold her emotions. Taking to her official IG handle, the ‘Goodies’ singer expressed her major adoration for her. “Simply beautiful @ vanessabryant #playgigisway everyday,” she wrote, adding multiple hearts and other emojis in her IG story caption. She also shared an image of a brand-new product that was created in Gianna’s honor.

Gianna Bryant, just like her NBA dad, played for the Amateur Athletic Union and Harbor Day School in Newport Beach. On her special day, her mother, Vanessa, started a new endeavor to carry on her family’s heritage to promote the Mamba Mentality.

Vanessa Bryant initially shared the update in a heartfelt post: “Today, on Gianna’s birthday, we’re excited to announce the launch of the Gianna Bryant Scholarship Award! With the support of the Variety Boys and Girls Club in Boyle Heights (@varietybgc), we’ve selected exceptional young people who embody Gigi’s Mamba Mentality through their resilience, commitment to equal opportunities, and ability to inspire others,” she wrote in the caption.

In addition, the Hall-of-Fame athlete Kobe Bryant’s wife sent her love and best wishes to the scholarship recipients, who carry forward Gianna’s legacy.

“To our recipients, you are representatives of Gianna’s vision – to create a world where young people have every opportunity to follow their dreams regardless of gender or the pressures and expectations we receive from society. Sending all our love to you and your bright future ahead,” she added.

Ciara’s tribute to Gianna followed shortly after her husband shared a heartfelt message in honor of Gigi.

Russell Wilson’s heartfelt note to Kobe Bryant’s late daughter

The NFL quarterback shared a two-word tribute to GiGi on Instagram: “Happy Birthday, Gigi.” He tagged Vanessa Bryant and her daughter, model Natalia Bryant, in the post. Shortly after Kobe Bryant’s wife shared her emotional message on Gianna’s birthday, Wilson’s heartfelt tribute quickly went viral among NFL fans.

“Happy birthday, Gigi! Mommy loves and misses you more than I could ever express. I love you, Gianna. ❤️19 ♉️ 5/1 #Mambacita,” wrote Vanessa Bryant, mother of four, in an emotional Instagram caption. The post featured a vibrant image of the late Gianna Bryant in her basketball uniform, capturing her energy and spirit.

This isn’t the first time the Wilsons have shown their love for the Bryant family. Earlier this year, on January 18, Ciara celebrated Natalia Bryant’s 22nd birthday with a heartfelt message: “Nani Boo @nataliabryant!! Happy Birthday, Young Queen!! We are so proud of you! We love you so much!! 🎂🎉💃🏽.” Russell Wilson also shared his appreciation for Kobe Bryant’s eldest daughter, reposting Ciara’s message on his Instagram Story with the note: “Happy Bday @nataliabryant.”

Moments like these continue to highlight the strong bond and mutual admiration between the Bryant and Wilson families. That’s an enduring connection that resonates deeply with fans.