Kobe Bryant’s eldest, Natalia Bryant, opened up about how she plans to keep her father’s “mamba mentality” going. The 20-year-old is a student at the University of Southern California and model for several brands. Natalia lives with her father’s teachings as she excels through her studies and runways. She explained the coined phrase means that one is “constantly trying to be the best version” of themselves.
“Mamba mentality is about constantly trying to be the best version of yourself. It’s putting your best foot forward at all times, regardless of all the noise. I want to make sure that mentality stays intact because it can be so easy to give up on yourself when things get tough. You have to remind yourself that with positivity and resilience, you can do anything,” she told Elle.
Natalia is working hard; she recently walked in the Versace Spring/Summer 2024 show and is UGG’s newest campaign talent. While trying to manage several hats, she explained that when she feels overwhelmed or sad, she focuses on the good instead.
“I spend time with the people I love, like my family; I hang out with my friends or listen to my favorite music. I do things that bring me peace and that put me in a much better head space. I think it’s important to focus on the positive aspects life has to offer,” she explained.
“My family is my rock. My mom and my sisters are amazing, and I can always lean on them for support. I also have amazing friends and mentors that I love who I know I can count on.”
Natalia and her mother, Vanessa, and sisters, Capri and Bianka, have all continued to honor Kobe. The family has honored him with painted murals and statues, named basketball courts and a handprint ceremony. Most recently, Natalia wore her father’s number on a Dodgers jersey while tossing the first pitch at a Los Angeles Dodgers home game, according to People.
