
via Imago
January 28, 2020, Beverly Hills, California, USA: Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bryant died in a Helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in Calabasas, California. He was 41. FILE PHOTO: Vanessa Bryant (L) and Kobe Bryant on the red carpet of the 2018 Vanity Fair Oscar Party held at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday March 4, 2018. JAVIER ROJAS/PI Beverly Hills USA – ZUMAp124 20200128_zaa_p124_016 Copyright: xJavierxRojasx

via Imago
January 28, 2020, Beverly Hills, California, USA: Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bryant died in a Helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in Calabasas, California. He was 41. FILE PHOTO: Vanessa Bryant (L) and Kobe Bryant on the red carpet of the 2018 Vanity Fair Oscar Party held at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday March 4, 2018. JAVIER ROJAS/PI Beverly Hills USA – ZUMAp124 20200128_zaa_p124_016 Copyright: xJavierxRojasx
When Vanessa Bryant was dragged into shocking claims by Dr. Umar Johnson, several fans and famous names came to her defense. Known for his controversial remarks, Dr. Johnson alleged that Vanessa has not used Kobe Bryant’s wealth and name to benefit the black community. Many people have countered the accuracy of his claims. One NBA star in her corner is Jamal Crawford.
He wrote on his Instagram Stories, “Umar is tripping.” Crawford further added, “VB does more for this and future generations than most. Whether you can see it or not, everything isn’t for cameras… What I’ve learned in life is ‘those who do. those who don’t, take about those who do. Keep ‘doing.'”
Johnson was on The Joe Budden Podcast when he claimed Vanessa hasn’t used any of the late NBA legend’s $600 million estate to “do any good in the black community.” He tried to justify it with Vanessa not involving HBCUs in her initiatives.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He didn’t say it outright, but he’s apparently referring to the Mamba Program. The Nike program is currently affiliated with LSU, Duke University, the University of Connecticut, the University of South Carolina, and the University of Oregon and they will wear special editions of the Nike Kobes.
WATCH THIS STORY | Shaquille O’Neal Threatens Stephen A. Smith After New Studio Debut: “Im a Have to Call TEX JOHNSON”
He ignited a frenzy of naysayers disproving his claims. Fans defended Vanessa to use the estate as she deems fit. They also stated that no specific community is entitled to Kobe Bryant’s legacy. Others also pointed out discrepancies in Johnson’s own financial history.
Like Crawford said, Vanessa has indeed been a low-key philanthropist who has done a lot of good in Kobe’s name.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Fans take exception to allegations against Vanessa Bryant
Several known names and fans countered that there’s a lot Vanessa has done without seeking recognition. In particular, she donated the entire $16 million sum from a legal settlement regarding her husband and daughter’s deaths to the Mamba and Mambicita Foundation. The foundation in honor of Kobe and Gianna supports several young athletes.
Many others also pointed that Vanessa has donated towards refurbishment of community courts and athletic facilities. Vanessa has ensured the foundation also works to help children in need irrespective of their backgrounds.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
There is little doubt that the allegations are unfounded. As Crawford said, Vanessa Bryant ‘keeps doing.’
READ MORE: Bill Simmons Makes a Bold Joel Embiid–Shaquille O’Neal Comparison
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT