When Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna “GiGi” Bryant died tragically in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, the world stopped. It was one of those “where were you when…” moments, a collective heartbreak that transcended sports. Kobe was more than a basketball legend; he was a cultural icon, a father, a storyteller, and a figure who inspired millions through his relentless drive.

What made the loss especially devastating was GiGi. At just 13 years old, she carried her father’s fire for basketball and was already carving her own path as a rising star in women’s sports. Their bond reminded us that greatness isn’t only about accolades but also about nurturing the next generation.

In many ways, Kobe’s “Mamba Mentality” became a guide for resilience in the tumultuous year that followed. The tragedy was a sobering reminder that life is fragile and unpredictable. We mourned as a global family, sharing memories, murals, and tributes that kept their spirits alive.

Kobe and GiGi’s passing also pushed conversations about fatherhood, women’s sports, and the legacy we leave behind. It reminded us that legends never truly die—they live on in how we carry their lessons forward. In 2020, amid so much loss, Kobe’s mantra of discipline and perseverance became more relevant than ever.