Kobe Bryant’s Widow Vanessa On Daughter Natalia’s Modeling Career: ‘Daddy Would Be So Happy’

Vanessa Bryant is proud of her daughter Natalia after the latter secured a contract with a prestigious modeling agency.

The widow of the late NBA star Kobe Bryant took to Instagram Friday to share the good news with her followers that her eldest daughter is now pursuing a career in modeling.

Bryant shared a photo of Natalia looking classy and stylish with her glamorous makeup on. She then revealed in the caption that the 18-year-old is building a name in the modeling industry and her late father would have been so proud of her as well.

“My baby (with makeup) [smiley and heart emoji] #grown @nataliabryant [heart emoji]. Daddy would be so happy that you’re pursuing your modeling career now that you’re 18. You’re beautiful insided and out. Beautiful with makeup and without makeup. We love you,” she wrote.

Natalia then quickly responded to her mom by re-sharing the post via her Instagram Stories. In her post, she expressed her love for Vanessa by writing, “I love you @vanessabryant.”

Entertainment Tonight has learned that Natalia signed a contract with IMG Models three weeks ago. The agency also welcomed Natalia by uploading her photo onto its official Instagram account and sharing her statement about her budding career.

“I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age. I have a love for the industry and ever since I can remember I wanted to model. There is a lot to learn but I feel this is a great opportunity for me to learn and express myself creatively,” she said.

Natalia, who also got into University of Oregon last month, recently shared behind-the-scenes snaps from the first photoshoot she did since signing with IMG Models. In one picture, she could be seen rocking a gray-brown cashmere coat and some accessories including a silver chain necklace and large hoop earrings. She wrote in the caption, “Had so much fun today with [photographer Mason Poole].”

The young model sported a black dress and a leopard print long coat in another snap. She also wore large black boots and posed for the camera while sitting atop a wooden chair. “BTS from today,” she captioned the post.