The statue also holds a deeper meaning, highlighting the Bryant family’s advocacy for women’s sports. Kobe is depicted wearing a WNBA hoodie.
“We were faced with the harsh reality that no matter how great Gianna was or could be, no matter how great her daddy taught her how to play, or even if she played exactly like Kobe, she would not have had the same benefits and opportunities that her dad and young men currently have because she’s a girl,” Vanessa shared during the unveiling ceremony with a small gathering of family and friends.
This realisation, Vanessa explained, ignited a passion within the family to champion change for women in sports.
“That’s when the challenge to change the perception of women’s sports started in our household,” she said.
“Gianna would be going into her first year of college this year.
We would be watching her shine on the court.
Now her spirit is shining a path she has created for young girls and women in sports.”
Vanessa revealed that the sculpture itself merges two iconic moments shared by Kobe and Gigi courtside, “Gianna has her gorgeous smile on her face and Kobe is kissing the top of her head while wearing the Philadelphia Eagles beanie that Gigi gifted him for Christmas.
He’s also wearing a WNBA hoodie he wore courtside to the game with Gigi.
