Photo: Getty Images
In memoriam, a number of athletes, entertainers and politicians took time to celebrate what would have been Kobe Bryant's 43rd birthday. Most notably, Bryant's wife, Vanessa, shared a heartfelt message about the person he was off of the court.
"Happy birthday, Papi. Te Amo por siempre. Amor Eterno," Bryant wrote.
"Happy Birthday Daddy," Bryant's eldest daughter, Natalia, captioned in a separate post.
Also, Bryant's sister, Sharia Washington, shared a number of photos from the NBA champion's childhood. Much like his wife and daughter, Bryant's sister also shared a message that may leave you in tears.
"I should be texting you funny memes about getting old and gray and laughing at your smart--- comebacks. Just one of your many talents. We celebrate you today and every day as you continue to inspire so many people all around the world. Happy birthday, Bean! Thank you for always keeping real! Love you always," she wrote.
Throughout the day, a number of athletes have offered tweets and other social media posts remembering the NBA legend. Naomi Osaka, Russell Westbrook and Paul Gasol all paid tribute to Bryant in their own special way.
"Happy birthday, brother. Miss you," Gasol tweeted.
"My Brother. Still miss him so much. Mamba Forever," Stephen A. Smith added.
Fellow NBA star Carmelo Anthony also offered a heartfelt story about what it was like to play against the man he calls "the greatest."
“You know Kob, man, he going at your neck. He’s saying s— to you, elbowing you. I had my braids back then too, so he’s touching my head. I’m like, ‘What the f— are you doing? Don’t touch my head.’ Do you know what I’m saying?" he told Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes.
“I just remember him, he always would tell me, ‘I’ll guard you in the fourth (quarter). They ain’t going to make no calls on me. They ain’t going to call no s— on me in the fourth.’”
The celebration of Bryant's life will not end today. On Wednesday, Orange County will celebrate "Kobe Day."
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