Sabrina Ionescu celebrates Olympic gold with mentor Kobe Bryant's family to honor his legacy

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Following her gold medal triumph with Team USA in women's basketball at the Paris Olympics, Sabrina Ionescu shared a joyful moment with the family of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant.

The US women's basketball team clinched the top spot by narrowly defeating France 67-66 in the final match on Sunday.

Sabrina Ionescu shares Joy with Kobe Bryant's family

After the game concluded, Sabrina Ionescu, who played a key role in securing the victory in her inaugural Olympic appearance, rushed to the sidelines where she was greeted by Kobe Bryant's widow, Vanessa, and their daughters Natalia, Capri, and Bianka.

“I’m just so happy to share this moment with them,” Ionescu said, her smile reflecting her joy. The scene was filled with smiles and embraces as Ionescu celebrated the win with Bryant's family.

Vanessa Bryant echoed the sentiment, saying, “It means so much to us to see Sabrina achieve this dream. Kobe would have been so proud.”

The moment was made even more special with the presence of Bryant's former Los Angeles Lakers teammate, Pau Gasol, and his family in attendance.

Gasol's wife, Catherine McDonnell, showed support by donning Ionescu's New York Liberty jersey. “It’s incredible to see Sabrina’s success,” Gasol commented. “Her connection with Kobe and her achievements are truly inspiring.”

Ionescu first met Bryant during her time with the Oregon Ducks, and their relationship blossomed into a mentor-mentee bond.

Sabrina Ionescu honors Kobe Bryant’s legacy amid career milestones 

Despite Kobe Bryant's tragic passing in 2020, Ionescu continued to stay close with his family as her career advanced. “Kobe has always been a huge influence on me,” Ionescu reflected. “His legacy continues to inspire me every day.”

Notably, Ionescu was drafted first overall by the Liberty in the same year as the helicopter crash that took the lives of Bryant and his daughter Gigi.

This Olympic gold medal adds to Ionescu's impressive collection of international achievements, which includes victories at the FIBA World Cup, the U-17 World Cup, the US U-16 Championship, and the Pan American Games (3x3).

On Sunday, she contributed two rebounds and three assists in ten minutes of play to secure the gold for Team USA.

“Every moment on the court felt special today,” Ionescu said. “I’m grateful for the support and the opportunity to represent my country.”

Fans celebrate Sabrina Ionescu’s victory and connection with Bryant family

Fans took to social media to express their heartfelt sentiments about Sabrina Ionescu’s gold medal victory and her continued bond with the Bryant family.

One user said, "It's cool and touching to see Sabrina and the Bryant family continue to remain close. . I know Kobe is smiling down on them."

Another user commented, "This was for Kobe."

One added, "The Bryant family is always there supporting her."

Another replied, "Congratulations to the team, what a game played by the champions."

One added, "Such a shaky close win, but Congratulations! "

Another commented, "Kobe is there in spirit."

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