Kobe Bryant's Daughter Natalia Signs with IMG Models

The 18-year old lost her father, Kobe Bryant, and sister, Gianna, in a helicopter crash just over a year ago.

More than a year after the untimely death of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna—known as Gigi—the Lakers star's oldest daughter, Natalia, is stepping into the spotlight with a new modeling contract from IMG Models. The agency has taken strides in recent months to sign newer faces like Kamala Harris' step-daughter Ella Emhoff and President Biden's inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, however, their roster also includes major names like supermodels Gigi and Bella Hadid.

Natalia shared the news on her Instagram, writing, "I am beyond thrilled and honored to be a part of the IMG family!!" Natalia's mother, Vanessa Bryant, also reposted the news on her social media account. She wrote, "I’m so happy for you! I love you Nani!"

“I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age,” said the 18-year-old in a statement to WWD. “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.”

“Natalia has such a bright future ahead of her, and we were taken aback by her beauty, talent and drive from our first encounter,” said Maja Chiesi, Senior Vice President of IMG Models. “We’re honored to partner with Natalia in shaping her career in fashion and beauty, and we look forward to connecting her with fresh, exciting opportunities that showcase her multifaceted personality and look.”