Vanessa Bryant Announces New Name for Kobe's Charity: 'Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation'

The wife of the late basketball legend made the change to honor her daughter, Gianna.

kobe gianna
Getty

Image via Getty

kobe gianna

Vanessa Bryant has announced that Kobe Bryant's charity will move forward with a new name — the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation.

The wife of the late basketball legend made the change to honor her daughter, Gianna, who died in the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of all nine people aboard. "Because there is no #24 without #2, we have updated the Mamba Sports Foundation to now be called the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation," she wrote on Instagram Thursday.

Thanking everyone that has supported her and her family as they grieve, Bryant said their mission "remains the same -- and stronger than ever," to help provide opportunities for young people through athletics.

"Thank you all for the outpouring of support and your kind donations to date as we carry forth Kobe and Gigi’s legacy," Vanessa continued. "We hope to empower young athletes in a world they left us all to help shape."

Fans will be able to pay their respects to Bryant and his daughter on February 24 at Staples Center for what should be an emotional memorial.

Latest in Sports