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Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant would have turned 42 on Sunday. Birthday greetings have been coming in from all over the world throughout the day, but there are few more moving tributes than those that come from his own family. Natalia Bryant, the eldest daughter of Kobe and wife Vanessa, recently shared an endearing message for his late father via Instagram.
Natalia chose to commemorate his father's birthday with one of her fondest memories with his dad while he was still with them:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEPWWVxpaaq/
It has been seven months since Kobe and his daughter Gianna passed away in a tragic helicopter crash along with seven other victims. That now feels like a lifetime away, especially with all that has been going in the world over the past months. However, moments like these just bring back all the hurt. This is Kobe's first birthday since his passing, and it's completely understandable how more than a few folks (admittedly, this writer included) are feeling rather emotional on this special day for the Lakers legend.
Bryant had a tremendous career during his playing days with the Lakers, and his many achievements on the court make him one of the greatest players of all time. However, there's no denying that for Bryant himself, his loving family was his biggest achievement. Kobe's role as a great father was highlighted posthumously in the many tributes that was given in his honor, and this touching message from his first-born is certainly testament to this fact.
Rest in power, Kobe. Mamba forever.
