Kobe Bryant’s passing left a gaping hole in many people’s hearts. However, the pain his family felt is arguably unimaginable. Not only did they lose the Mamba, but Vanessa also lost her daughter, Gianna Bryant. It was also a peak age for her eldest daughter, Natalia Bryant, who had turned 17 only a week before her father’s passing. This is when his teammate and good friend Pau Gasol vowed to do everything he can for the family. And it seems he is living up to his promise. Celebrating Natalia’s 20th birthday, the two-time NBA champion visited Bryant.

Gasol and Kobe Bryant shared a special relationship. Apart from being brothers with a similar drive to win, they bonded outside the court. Likewise, their families grew close. After the five-time champion tragically passed away, Gasol has actively been a part of the Bryant family. He is often visiting and spending time with Vanessa and her daughters, who he regards as sisters and nieces. However, he also named his daughter after Giannia, according to Hola.

Only winning in his role as an uncle, he made sure to be present for the eldest daughter’s big day. Notably, he took Natalia Bryant out on the golf course to celebrate her birthday.

Pau Gasol wins hearts and continues to keep his promise to Kobe Bryant

Being one of Kobe Bryant’s closest friends, Gasol watched his daughters grow up. In addition, he shares a special relationship with the family. Constantly hanging out with Vanessa and the daughter, he takes the role of an uncle very seriously. Notably, the Spaniard never fails to show up on family occasions. He even spent his 40th birthday with the family.

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Likewise, there was probably no way he would miss Natalia Bryant’s 20th birthday. So he shared a picture of the two out on the golf course wishing his ‘niece’ a happy birthday. This melted NBA fans’ hearts who gave Pau Gasol his flowers.

The eldest daughter of the Bryant family seems to be as ambitious as her father. At just 20, she signed with IMG models to embark on her journey in the industry. She has already made her mark collaborating with Beyonce for Adidas’ Ivy Park campaign. In addition, she was also present at the 222 Vanity Fair’s Oscars party. The drive of Kobe Bryant seems to have passed on to his daughters. If Natalia Bryant continues her path, she might just become a big name in the modeling industry.

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If and when that does happen, Pau Gasol will probably be present for each of her milestones. What do you think of Pau Gasol as a friend to the Bryants? Let us know your views in the comments below.