MANILA, Philippines — Kobe Bryant was not only a teammate and a friend to Pau Gasol but also a brother.
Gasol and Bryant shared a strong bond, having played six seasons together and celebrated back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010.
Their tight relationship remains even after Bryant’s tragic death in a helicopter crash that also claimed the life of his daughter Gianna and seven others last January.
On Tuesday, Gasol—who celebrated his 40th birthday—even paid the Bryants a visit and spent time with the Los Angeles Lakers legend’s three other daughters in Natalia, Capri and Bianka.
“Happy 40th birthday unlce Pau! We ❤️ you. Love, The Bryant Girls,” Kobe’s wife Vanessa posted on her Instagram.
“I know Kobe would say, ‘Happy 40th Pablo! Love you, Hermano.’”
It wasn’t the first time Gasol took the time for the Bryants.
Three months ago, the Spanish center and his wife Cat sent flowers to Vanessa in celebration of the Bryant couple’s anniversary.