On Sunday, January 26, Vanessa Bryant tragically lost her husband and NBA basketball star, Kobe Bryant , and their 13-year-old daughter Gianna Bryant in a fatal helicopter crash. In the midst of the devastating news, the mother-of-four continues to be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. If you’re wondering who is the Latina who captured the late pro athlete’s heart, we’ve got you covered. Ahead you’ll find facts on how both Nessa and the Black Mamba met, their beloved Hollywood friends and how they gave back to communities.
She is Latina!
Vanessa Cornejo Urbieta was born on May 5, 1982 and is half Mexican and half Irish.
High school sweethearts
Vanessa met Kobe Bryant when she was still in high school. Though her family was not in agreement with their relationship, the pair took their vows and said I do in 2001. This past April, the couple celebrated 18 years of marriage.
A growing family
The 37-year-old and Kobe Bryant have four girls together. Natalia Diamante was born in January 2003, Gianna Maria-Onore, who was in the helicopter with Kobe, was born in May 2006, Bianka Bella was born in Dec. 2016 and Capri Kobe was born in June 2019.
She doesn’t like the spotlight
Though her husband was the Black Mamba, the mother-of-four lived a private life and remains confidential on social media.
Wanted to carry Kobe’s legacy
Vanessa named Gianna ‘Mambacita’ as she was training to become Kobe’s basketball prodigy.
Famous friends
She is friends with Hollywood’s biggest names like Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J Blige and others.
A child at heart
The wonderful mother and her children are huge Disney lovers who were regulars at magic kingdom.
A supportive friend
Michelle Obama and Kobe’s wife share the same love and admiration for basketball and continues to support one another throughout life’s different chapters. “Always, always, always good to see our First Lady,” posted Nessa.
A philanthropist
She continues to give back to communities and athletes across the country through the Mamba sports foundation.
Embraced her cultura
Vanessa ensured her children including Gianna were showered with the beauty of cultural diversity.
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