Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

Kobe Bryant’s Daughter Announces New Chapter with Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Oct 8, 2025 11:41 AM ET

Kobe Bryant’s legacy in Los Angeles remains one of the most enduring in sports history. Over his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, he won five NBA championships, was named league MVP in 2008, and earned two Finals MVP honors in 2009 and 2010. A fierce competitor and one of the game’s greatest scorers, Bryant was an 18-time All-Star, 15-time All-NBA selection, and nine-time All-Defensive First Team member. He also represented Team USA with distinction, capturing two Olympic gold medals.

Following his tragic death in 2020, Bryant’s impact has continued to resonate deeply across the NBA and Los Angeles. His family, especially his wife Vanessa and their daughters, has maintained a close relationship with the Lakers through tributes, community events, and creative collaborations that celebrate his lasting influence.

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24).© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Fast forward to 2025, and Natalia, the eldest daughter of Bryant, is stepping into her own spotlight as she makes her debut as a creative director for a new short film produced in collaboration with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The short, posted on the Lakers' official YouTube channel, captures the team’s global influence and cultural legacy, featuring appearances from LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Magic Johnson, actress Brenda Song, and Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani.

Natalia included a heartfelt tribute to her late father, incorporating a clip of Bryant’s signature game-winning shot as the announcer’s famous call rings out, “Bryant for the win!”

In another memorable moment, Doncic playfully tosses a hand towel into a garbage can at the Lakers' practice facility while yelling, “Kobe!” — a nod to a tradition shared by basketball fans everywhere.

“This project was an amazing, collaborative environment with such creative people, and we all came together to portray the Lakers’ impact not only in LA but around the world,” Natalia told PEOPLE. “Everyone has their own connection to the Lakers. I hope those who already love this team watch this project and remember what that pride feels like. And if you’re not a Lakers fan yet, I hope you watch this, and it makes you want to be.”

The project continues the enduring bond between the Bryant family and the Lakers organization. Since Bryant’s passing, the team has honored him through numerous tributes, including the unveiling of his bronze statue outside Crypto.com Arena and annual “Mamba Day” celebrations.

Natalia’s creative debut aims to celebrate her father’s influence and also extend the Bryant legacy through art, storytelling, and the same spirit of excellence that defined Bryant’s time in Los Angeles.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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