'Queen Mamba!': Vanessa Bryant hailed for 'immense strength' during heart-wrenching memorial for Kobe and Gianna
Fans have expressed how much they admire the immense strength of Kobe Bryant's wife, Vanessa, who gave a moving speech at the memorial service of her husband and their daughter, Gianna.
The 41-year-old Kobe and 13-year-old Gianna were among nine people who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash on January 26 in Los Angeles. Getting teary-eyed, Vanessa praised her husband while addressing thousands of fans gathered at the Staples Center to remember Kobe and Gianna.
Vanessa had spoken proudly of Gianna and told the crowd she had no doubt the teen would have gone on to become "one of the greatest WNBA players of all-time". She also spoke of how she missed her kisses, her smile and her wit.
Vanessa spent the second part of her speech speaking about Kobe, who she said was a "sweet husband and a beautiful father", and how they had always seemed to balance each other out.
"God knew they couldn't be on this Earth without each other," Vanessa shared. "He had to bring them home to have them together. Babe, you take care of our Gigi. I’ve got Natalia, B, and Capri. We’re still the best team," she shared.
Many people took to social media to praise Vanessa's strength and resilience in the face of such heartbreak. One fan shared, "Vanessa obviously learned too. To get up and speak when most couldn't was brave!"
Another added, "Queen Mamba. Your strength and resilience are truly amazing. A woman's strength will never be unmatched! Your memories and your sweet words about Kobe and Gianna were beautifully said, we will continue to lift you and girls and prayers."
A fan wrote, "Vanessa was the perfect example of grace and elegance. God bless her and her beautiful daughters." Another echoed the same sentiments and said, "What a very very courageous woman. My deepest condolences."
The service took place at the central Los Angeles arena where Bryant had played for the Lakers for 17 seasons out of his 20 year NBA career.
We had previously reported that 33,643 roses were placed around the center stage at the Staples Center for the memorial — one rose for every point Kobe scored during his 20-season professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Singer Beyonce had opened the memorial service with performances of her hit songs 'XO' and 'Halo'.