Kobe Bryant was one of the most recognizable figures in sports. The Black Mamba was an NBA superstar, who broke onto the scene as an 18-year-old. Fresh out of high school, Kobe caught the basketball world’s attention.
Advertisement
His work ethic, mentality, and skill reminiscent of Michael Jordan made him a player destined for greatness. But, basketball wasn’t the only thing he made headlines for. In 1999, three years into his career, Kobe was pictured across all tabloids with his 17-year-old fiance, Vanessa Urbieta Cornejo.
Their relationship took the world by storm, especially with its controversy. After all, Vanessa was still in high school and to make matters worse, Kobe’s parents weren’t exactly happy about their union. But, despite the adversities, they endured and were happily married for 19 years. A true love story that makes one wonder, how did they meet?
Kobe Bryant met his wife Vanessa on the set of a music video
In 1999, Vanessa Urbieta Cornejo was just a regular high schooler at Marina High School, in Huntington Beach California. Until one day she got scouted to be in a music video. In particular, the music video for “G’d Up” a song by The Eastsidaz, featuring Snoop Dogg. After that, she was getting calls for work left, right, and center.
Of course, Vaness was happy with the work. But, little did she know that this would lead to her meeting the love of her life. How? Well, the second gig she booked happened to put her on set with Los Angeles Laker star Kobe Bryant. And, if the video proves anything, it was “love at first sight” for the Black Mamba.
The video shows Kobe mouthing the words, “I love her” before he sees the camera behind him. It certainly is one of his sweeter moments caught on camera.
After that, the rest is history. The two started dating shortly after, and within nine months were engaged to be married. In 2001, they tied the knot, were married for nineteen years, and raised four lovely daughters.
Kobe bought a $100,000 diamond wedding ring for his soon-to-be-wife Vanessa
At the time of their marriage, Kobe Bryant had been in the league for around five seasons. That means he was still on his rookie extension when he bought Vanessa Bryant a seven-carat diamond wedding ring worth $100,000.
Safe to say Kobe wasn’t going to cheap out when it came to putting a ring on that finger. Just goes to show how much Vanessa meant to him.
