Image Source: Getty / Amy Sussman [1]

Vanessa Bryant [2] got emotional about her late husband, Kobe Bryant [3], during her acceptance speech at the Baby2Baby 10-Year Gala on Saturday. Vanessa was a recipient of the giving tree award for her contribution to the organization. The last time she attended the gala in person was with Kobe in November 2019 shortly before his sudden death [4].

"I have to start by saying how much I miss my perfect date today [5]. My husband Kobe loved attending," Vanessa began in the speech, per Variety. "With his big smile, he would look at me and say, 'Babe, this is fricking awesome. Tonight, I'm your plus one . . . It's the one event that I'm not obligated to do anything. I get to be your date, help families and enjoy great food.'"

Vanessa, who brought her oldest daughter Natalia Bryant as her plus one [6], added that Kobe had a special connection to Baby2Baby after seeing "the amount of homeless people" in LA and wanting to give back to mothers in need. "That was eye-opening to us and we wanted to do something about it, so we started our own foundation to help." An emotional Vanessa concluded her speech, saying, "I want to thank my husband Kobe and my daughters Natalia, Gianna, Bianka and Capri. Without your love and support, I wouldn't have this strength to be here this evening. I love you."