
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
Kobe Bryant‘s wife Vanessa expressed appreciation for the recent Mamba tribute by her late husband’s former agent. The 5x NBA champion is an everlasting inspiration. Even after his death, his family and friends have maintained a close relationship with his legacy. The General Manager of the Los Angeles Lakers, Rob Pelinka, was the latest to flaunt his connection to the basketball great.
The Black Mamba was known for his unparalleled work ethic and relentless drive. While off-court, Bryant’s commitment to philanthropy and storytelling further solidified his impact. The Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation is a reflection of that mentality. While the NBA players are often seen proudly donning Mambacita shoes or shirts, Rob Pelinka also decided to do the same.
He was spotted wearing a complete red Mambacita attire. His shoes and socks also sported the same name. That didn’t slide from Vanessa’s attention. She quickly shared a snap of him wearing the outfit on her IG story and acknowledged his tribute. Alongside the snap, she wrote, “Mamba Forever” and “My big brother RP!”
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This acknowledgment reflects the deep friendship and bond between Vanessa and Pelinka. This exchange truly stands as a testament to the lasting connections the Los Angeles Lakers legend forged through shared experiences in the league. Pelinka shares a great relationship with Bryant’s daughters as well. Moreover, Bryant was a huge supporter during the selection of Pelinka as the general manager of the franchise.
WATCH THIS STORY: “He Passed That Sunday”: Shaquille O’Neal’s 66YO Buddy Reminisces the “Surreal” Moment When the World Lost NBA Legend, Kobe Bryant
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Kobe Bryant’s heartwarming message of support to Rob Pelink
Pelinka and the Bryant family have been through numerous hurdles in their professional and personal journeys. As per reports, the 5x champion had an instrumental role in Pelinka securing the Lakers’ executive position in 2017. In celebration, the legend conveyed a heartfelt message on his social media platform.

via Getty
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 24: Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka speaks during The Celebration of Life for Kobe & Gianna Bryant at Staples Center on February 24, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
He wrote, “No one knows the business of basketball more than @robpelinka. I wish him & the Lakers much success as they bring winning bball back to LA.” Pelinka was Kobe’s agent before joining the Lakers and was one of his most trusted confidantes. Pelinka often gets emotional whenever he reminisces about Kobe.
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Have you seen Vanessa’s story yet? Let us know what your thoughts are in the comments section below.
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