It feel like every significant Los Angeles Lakers moment reminds fans of Kobe Bryant. The latest milestone was clearly no exception, as Kobe's wife and the Lakers' unofficial first lady Vanessa Bryant celebrated her 39th birthday on Wednesday.
Among the many well-wishers, Bryant's on-court spouse for many years Pau Gasol made sure to show Vanessa some love on her special day. The Spanish power forward posted this on Twitter:
Happy birthday, sis! 🎉🥳✌🏽
Love you, #VanessaBryant! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/k0sOKSUGhp— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) May 5, 2021
Aside from Kobe's immediate family, Gasol was one of the most devastated by the tragic accident. We can recall that the big man went radio silent for a number of days after the news before mustering up the words to express his appreciation for his long-time Lakers teammate.
“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” Kobe Bryant 💔🙏🏼
— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) January 30, 2020
The Bryant and the Gasol families have maintained a tight-knit bond that can only get stronger as the years go by, just like Kobe and Pau's actual relationship on the court. With nearly every month littered with Kobe Bryant memories, Lakers milestones, and family celebrations, his legacy continues to live on.
Pau Gasol and his wife sent Vanessa Bryant flowers for her and Kobe's anniversary 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/blSKblZpLG
— Silver Screen and Roll (@LakersSBN) April 19, 2020
Lakers fans can only hope the team as currently constructed can deliver another championship in honor of the Mamba. Being able to match Kobe's back-to-back titles a decade later would definitely be a sweet gift.