Photo Courtesy of IG: @nataliabryant
In a world where legacies can fade away faster than a TikTok video, there’s one Bryant sister who’s determined to make sure her family name doesn’t just echo in the annals of history—it roars with the ferocity of a mama bear protecting her cubs.
That’s right, Natalia Bryant, the eldest of the Bryant clan, is stepping into the spotlight and making sure her father’s “Mamba Mentality” isn’t just a catchphrase, it’s a way of life.
It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions for Natalia since that fateful day in 2020 when the world lost a basketball legend and his radiant daughter in a tragic helicopter crash. But, despite the tears, Natalia’s determination is as sharp as her father’s three-pointers.
In a recent heart-to-heart with Elle, the 20-year-old model and University of Southern California University student spilled the beans on what “Mamba Mentality” really means to her.
“It’s putting your best foot forward at all times regardless of all the noise,” Natalia said.
“I want to make sure that mentality stays intact, because it can be so easy to give up on yourself when things get tough,” she added. “You have to remind yourself that with positivity and resilience you can do anything,” Natalia declares, and her words hit like a slam dunk buzzer-beater.
The pain of losing a loved one is universal, but Natalia’s journey to keep the “Mamba Mentality” alive has struck a chord with many. Social media has erupted with compassion and support, as people acknowledge the often unspoken hurt that a girl feels when losing her dad, offering their heartfelt prayers. Others see the beauty in her mission, recognizing that every child desires to keep their parents’ memory alive, and commend the entire Bryant family for their relentless efforts to honor Kobe and Gianna’s legacy.
One fan wrote, “Man enough people don’t talk about the”other “ hurt that a girl feels when loosing her dad. Praying for her!”
Another said, “I think that’s beautiful! Every child would want to keep their parents memory alive! I think the whole family is doing a great job at keeping Kobe and Gigi’s memory alive.”
“Y’all do realize keeping a legacy alive isn’t about fulfilling that persons life goals. It’s about embodying the essence of that person in whatever it is you choose to do in life. In her case she’s specifically speaking to the mamba mentality which is not limited to basketball,” another wrote.
Amidst the noise of the world, Natalia’s determination shines through, reminding us that keeping a legacy alive is about embodying the essence of that person in all aspects of life, transcending basketball and inspiring us all.
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But life isn’t all about basketball and mantras. Natalia is rocking both the runway and the college campus. As a student at the University of Southern California, she’s proving that brains and beauty go hand in hand. Recently, she made her runway debut during Milan Fashion Week, strutting her stuff for Versace like a pro.
“I am beyond excited about making my runway debut. It’s such an incredible opportunity and I’m so grateful to Donatella and am honored that she has invited me to be a part of something so special,” Natalia told Vogue.
It’s not all glitz and glam for Natalia; she knows the importance of leaning on her family and friends for support.
“I spend time with the people I love, like my family,” Natalia said. “I hang out with my friends, or listen to my favorite music. I do things that bring me peace and that put me in a much better headspace. I think it’s important to focus on the positive aspects life has to offer,” she says.
Natalia’s commitment to her father’s legacy isn’t just about fame and fortune. She’s got her eyes on the bigger picture.
The world may have lost a legend in Kobe Bryant, but Natalia is here to remind us that legends never truly fade away. As the applause from the social media gallery echoes, it’s clear that Natalia Bryant is a force to be reckoned with. So, keep your eyes on this rising star; she’s not just living up to her father’s legacy, she’s rewriting the playbook.