Vanessa Bryant Celebrates First Wedding Anniversary Without Kobe

Along with posting a pic of the Lakers legend kissing her on the cheek as she sat in his lap, Vanessa wrote on Instagram, “My king, my heart, my best friend. Happy 19th wedding anniversary baby. I miss you so much. I wish you were here to hold me in your arms. I love you. ❤️.”

In honor of their special day, Vanessa received roses from daughters Natalia, Bianka and Capri. The arrangement was thought to have been designed by famed florist Jeff Leatham.

Kobe's former teammate Pau Gasol and his wife Cat McDonnell also gave Vanessa a bouquet of the flowers. Pau wrote, “We love you V!”

Vanessa shared a photo of the “thoughtful” gifts, writing, “Anniversary flowers from my Kobe.❤️💔🙏🏽Thank you for my red roses @nataliabryant #GiannaBryant #BiankaBryant#CapriBryant @jeffleatham Thank you for my beautiful pink floral bouquet @catmcdonnell7@paugasol So thoughtful of all of you.”

Vanessa also shared a 2001 video clip of Kobe, who opened up about how he knew she was the one. He said, “You know, it's hard to pinpoint what exactly makes a person the one for you, but you just know. Love is a funny thing. I can't explain it and I can't understand it. All I know is, she caught my heart and I just knew that she was the one.”

“Vanessa, she's very strong. She's very strong-willed,” Bryant added.

On Sunday, Vanessa also posted a sweet TikTok video of Natalia dancing with her cousins when Bianka stole the show by sliding in front and showcasing her own cute moves. Watch here!

A few days ago, Vanessa celebrated daughter Gianna, who was an honorary pick at the 2020 WNBA Draft. She wrote on Instagram, “I'm so proud of you, Gigi. God I miss you baby. You deserved to live a long, healthy and happy life. I wish I could hold you and tell you how proud I am of you. You're the best, baby girl. Mommy loves and misses you more than I could ever express. ❤️ @WNBA #2 Gianna 'Gigi' Bryant Youngest draft pick ❤️🏀My 'mambacita' a.k.a. Wings.”

It was recently announced that Vanessa will play a major role in picking the recipient of the Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award every year, which she will also present. The award will recognize someone who has significantly contributed to the visibility and advancement of women's and girls' basketball at all levels.