Natalia Bryant marked her 23rd birthday this week. Family and close friends showered her with warm tributes. The celebrations highlighted the enduring connections within the Bryant family circle.
Pau Gasol Shares Sweet Birthday Message
NBA legend Pau Gasol posted a heartfelt note on social media. He serves as Natalia's godfather. Gasol wrote a message that made her day extra special.
"Happy Birthday Natalia! Love you so much and I'm so proud of you! I can't believe you are 23 already," Gasol expressed.
Fans joined in to celebrate Natalia after seeing Gasol's tribute. The post quickly gained attention online.
A Steady Presence as 'Uncle Pau'
Gasol has maintained a strong bond with the Bryant family for years. Natalia affectionately calls him "Uncle Pau." His friendship with her father, Kobe Bryant, began during their championship runs with the Los Angeles Lakers.
That relationship deepened into lasting family ties. It extended well beyond their basketball careers together.
Gasol and his wife later honored Kobe and Gianna Bryant. They gave their daughter the middle name Gianna. Vanessa Bryant also acts as godmother to Gasol's daughter. This further strengthened the bond between the two families.
Vanessa Bryant Celebrates Her Daughter's Journey
Vanessa Bryant shared her own touching birthday message for Natalia. She posted photos alongside her words. Vanessa highlighted pride and gratitude for her eldest daughter.
"Happy 23rd birthday Natalia. We love you so much! You're such a blessing and a gift to everyone that meets you. We are so proud of the kind and caring person you are! Wishing you the very best, always," Vanessa wrote.
She signed the message from the entire family. This included references to Natalia's father and sisters.
Natalia Bryant Builds Her Own Path
Natalia has carved out an impressive career in recent years. She graduated from the University of Southern California last spring. She earned a degree in film studies.
Natalia already applied her education professionally. She worked as a creative director on a Los Angeles Lakers promotional video. She also appeared in a Nike commercial alongside New York Knicks All-Star Jalen Brunson.
Away from film, Natalia has emerged as a successful model. She has walked runways in major fashion capitals like New York, Milan, and Paris. She has shared moments with industry icons such as Naomi Campbell. Her presence in the fashion world continues to grow steadily.
The birthday tributes underscore the close-knit support system around Natalia. Both Pau Gasol and Vanessa Bryant expressed immense pride in the young woman she has become. Their messages reflect a family legacy that continues to inspire many.
