Kobe Bryant and Gianna’s Bond: Lakers GM Shares a Glimpse of the Father-Daughter Relationship

Rob Pelinka, was first Kobe Bryant’s best friend, then his agent for most of his 20-year career in the NBA and now, the Los Angeles Lakers‘ General Manager. Pelinka was one of the closest people to the legend, and he has a very heart-warming story about Kobe and his daughter, Gigi Bryant.

This year marked the biggest loss for the Lakers and NBA Franchise. The demise of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and seven others shook the world. However, the impact Kobe had left can, to this day, never be forgotten. Therefore, the Lakers’ brilliant performances this year have been a massive tribute to him.

Even after retiring, Kobe helped his daughter develop the same love he had for the sport. Gigi has been present for several of the big moments in his illustrious career. Watching Kobe dominate the game for all of her life, Gigi aspired to do the same.

Kobe Bryant knew his daughter could do wonders

On Adrian Wojnarowski’s ‘Woj Pod‘ Podcast, Pelinka narrated a story about Kobe being in awe of his daughter. It happened when Pelinka was coaching his son’s team and Kobe Bryant had his own team, Gigi’s.

“Yeah, it was funny because he had Gigi’s team and he had the advantage of getting plays from Phil Jackson.” Pelinka talked about celebrating Kobe’s 40th birthday in Cabo and how excited he was to show everybody how Gigi played. “He was just so proud of Gigi. Pulled out an i-pad and showed us plays,” narrated Rob.

“She was a couple of years older than my son, who’s 12. And he said, ‘Our team is so good! We want to take on the boy’s team, you know.” So when the game was scheduled, Kobe walked in just like a coach. “He had the coaching shirt. He comes into the court and he’s got the net bag with the balls,” said Rob.

“He was hoping for a forty point blow out but they ended up beating us by one point.” This is exactly why the ‘gone but never forgotten’ Number 24 will continue to inspire us. Since his passing, many people have narrated their favorite Kobe story, helping all of us keep him alive.