Vanessa Bryant Mourns Late Daughter After UConn Wins National Championship: ‘Gigi Would’ve Loved Being There’

Vanessa Bryant Mourns Late Daughter After UConn Wins National Championship: ‘Gigi Would’ve Loved Being There’

 

**Vanessa Bryant Honors Gigi’s Memory After UConn Wins National Championship: “Gigi Would’ve Loved Being There”**

In a heartfelt tribute following the University of Connecticut’s NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship victory, Vanessa Bryant shared an emotional message remembering her late daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant. The UConn Huskies secured the 2025 national title, and for Vanessa, the moment was deeply bittersweet—knowing how much it would have meant to Gigi, who had once dreamed of playing for the storied program.

Taking to social media, Vanessa congratulated the team and shared a touching post: “Gigi would’ve loved being there with you.” She also included one of Gigi’s favorite motivational quotes that had become symbolic of her determination: “When you think you can’t, UCONN.”

 

Gigi, who tragically passed away alongside her father, Kobe Bryant, in the 2020 helicopter crash, had been a devoted basketball player and a passionate supporter of women’s basketball—especially the UConn Huskies. Her talent and ambition had many believing she was destined for greatness, with UConn being her dream school.

The UConn program had previously honored Gigi after her passing, reserving a seat on the bench with a No. 2 jersey and flowers, symbolizing the place she might have held on the team one day.

UConn star Paige Bueckers also reflected on Gigi’s spirit during the championship run. In an emotional moment, Bueckers revealed that her mother stayed in hotel room 824—a reference to Kobe Bryant’s jersey numbers, 8 and 24. She said she could feel the presence of both Kobe and Gigi throughout the tournament, and she believed they were watching over the team.

The Huskies’ championship win was not just a celebration of athletic excellence, but also a poignant reminder of the legacy left behind by a young girl who inspired so many. For Vanessa Bryant, Gigi’s memory continues to shine through moments like these—reminding the world of a bright future that was tragically cut short, but never forgotten.