Vanessa Bryant's Heartfelt Message

In a heartfelt message on Sunday, Vanessa Bryant celebrated the remarkable achievement of the University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team after their impressive 82-59 victory against South Carolina in the NCAA national championship game. The win marked a significant moment, bringing the championship title back to UConn after a nearly ten-year hiatus.

Emotional Sentiments for Gigi

Vanessa, the widow of legendary NBA player Kobe Bryant, expressed her emotional sentiments through an Instagram Story, stating that her late daughter, Gianna "Gigi" Bryant, would have been thrilled to be at the game in Tampa to witness the Huskies' triumphant return to glory. Gigi, tragically lost in a helicopter crash in January 2020 alongside her father and seven others, had a deep passion for basketball and an unwavering loyalty to the UConn team.

"Gigi would’ve loved being there with you," Vanessa wrote, posting a touching photo of UConn head coach Geno Auriemma and his team celebrating their victory. Accompanying the photo were heart emojis that conveyed her deep sense of loss and pride.

A Quote from Gigi

In her message, Vanessa referenced a quote that Gigi wrote in a letter to the team after they faced a heartbreaking overtime loss to Mississippi State in the 2017 Final Four. The quote, "When you think you can’t, UConn," reflects Gigi's indomitable spirit and her dream of playing for the Huskies. Gigi’s heartfelt note demonstrated her support and belief in the team's potential to overcome challenges.

Gigi's Legacy

As a poignant reminder of Gigi's legacy, she would have been starting her journey as a college freshman this year, potentially fulfilling her dreams of playing basketball at UConn. Vanessa recalled how the team honored Gigi just a day after the tragedy, showcasing a customized No. 2 jersey—Gigi's number—on the bench, along with a bouquet of flowers, solidifying her everlasting connection to the Huskies.

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