“You are loved”- Sharia Washington shares never-before-seen Kobe Bryant birthday photos in a heartfelt tribute to her late brother | NBA News
August 23, a day once filled with celebration, the memory of Kobe Bryant returned with deep emotion. The late Los Angeles Lakers legend, born in 1978, would have turned 47 this year. But instead of silence, the day brought a moving tribute. His sister stepped forward with unseen pictures, leaving fans emotional and reminding everyone of a light that never fades.
Kobe Bryant’s sister Sharia Washington shares unseen birthday photos on his 47th birthday
On Saturday, August 23, 2025, Sharia Washington, the elder sister of Kobe Bryant, marked what would have been her brother’s 47th birthday. From her home in Las Vegas, she posted a four-slide tribute on Instagram.The first photo showed Kobe Bryant as a smiling baby. The second showed him as a happy child. A third photo captured a warm hug between Kobe and Sharia. The final image showed Kobe blowing out birthday candles, his face lit with joy.Alongside the images, Washington wrote: “You are loved. You are missed. Happy 47th birthday Bean! #47 #1of1 #belegendary.”She also included one of Kobe Bryant’s quotes: “You are responsible for how people remember you, or don’t. So don’t take it lightly.”The post, shared on Kobe’s actual birth date, drew instant reactions. Fans from across the world filled the comments with love and grief. According to ESPN and People Magazine, the section quickly turned into a wall of tributes.
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One user wrote, “Happy birthday to my idol we love n miss u Kobe long live the goat” Another added, “Aww… forever iconic! Happy 47th Kobe! ”One user also wrote, “Sending love”Washington’s post offered a rare glimpse into Kobe’s personal side. It was not about his championships, but about family moments that showed the brother, son, and father he was.
Five years on, fans honor Kobe Bryant’s legacy after tragic helicopter crash
Kobe Bryant’s life ended too soon when he died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, on January 26, 2020, at just 41 years old. Among the nine people killed was 13-year-old Gianna Bryant, his daughter. The tragedy struck the world, and fans mourned a hero who had much more to offer.Five years on, the agony has not subsided. Sharia Washington’s post showed people how Kobe Bryant was more than just an athlete. Although a loving father and brother as well, he was a two-time Finals MVP and five-time NBA champion.For fans, the images felt personal. They saw a side of Kobe rarely shared in public. His wide smiles as a child, his moments with his sister, and the joy of a simple birthday wish. These photos showed why he remains loved not just as a player, but as a person.Tributes poured in across platforms. From casual fans to celebrities, the words were the same – Kobe Bryant is missed every single day. Millions of people continue to be motivated by his philosophy of hard work and his famous sayings. In basketball stadiums, in young athletes pursuing ambitions, and in the hearts of those who appreciated his unrelenting energy, his legacy lives on.Also read:‘We love and miss you’- Vanessa Bryant pens emotional tribute to late husband and NBA legend Kobe BryantFamily love and public memory let Kobe Bryant’s narrative be retold on what would have been his 47th birthday. A sister’s homage brought to mind how legends never really pass away.
