# What Happened to the Wives of Late NBA Stars? From Grief to Legacy

When an NBA superstar passes away, the loss is felt not only by fans and the basketball community but most deeply by their families—especially the wives who stood beside them through every high and low. But what happens after the headlines fade? Many of these remarkable women have turned unimaginable grief into powerful legacies, transforming personal tragedy into hope and change for others.

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## Carrying the Torch: Vanessa Bryant and the Mamba & Mambacita Foundation

After Kobe Bryant’s tragic helicopter crash in 2020, his wife Vanessa Bryant emerged as a symbol of strength and resilience. Refusing to let Kobe and Gianna’s memories fade, Vanessa took charge of the Mamba & Mambacita Foundation, focusing on youth empowerment, sports, and educational initiatives. Under her leadership, the foundation has refurbished basketball courts across the country and partnered with major college athletic programs, ensuring that Kobe’s passion for basketball continues to inspire new generations. Vanessa’s advocacy for women’s sports and her commitment to giving back have made her a powerful voice in the community.

## Donna Harris Lewis: Turning Heartbreak into Heart Health Advocacy

Reggie Lewis’s sudden collapse and death in 1993 shocked the NBA world. For his wife, Donna Harris Lewis, the pain was overwhelming. But Donna transformed her grief into action, founding the Reggie Lewis Foundation to promote cardiac screenings and heart health awareness. Her tireless work in the community has helped countless families and young athletes, making sure Reggie’s legacy saves lives.

## Lisa Cely: Fighting for Safer Roads in Memory of Malik Cely

When Malik Cely died in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, his wife Lisa Cely was determined to prevent others from suffering the same fate. She established the Mal Cely Foundation, focusing on safe driving awareness and youth development programs. Every year, Lisa and Malik’s fans honor his memory through community events and educational initiatives, keeping his spirit alive beyond the basketball court.

## Kendall Phils: Road Safety and Youth Advocacy After Bobby Phils

Kendall Phils, wife of Bobby Phils, channeled her grief after his fatal car crash into the Bobby Phils Foundation. Devoted to promoting safe driving and supporting youth programs, Kendall’s honest advocacy has touched thousands, turning Bobby’s tragic end into a catalyst for positive change.

## Katie Collier: Raising Awareness for Heart Health

After losing her husband Jason Collier to an undetected heart condition, Katie Collier founded the Jason Collier Foundation. Her mission: to educate families and athletes about the importance of heart screenings and proactive health care. Katie’s dedication continues to inspire and protect lives, honoring Jason’s memory every day.

## Regina Tisdale: Championing Cancer Research After Wayman Tisdale

Wayman Tisdale’s battle with bone cancer ended in 2009, but his wife Regina Tisdale refused to let cancer win. She established the Wayman Tisdale Foundation, supporting cancer research and families struggling with the cost of treatment. Regina’s advocacy and her heartfelt memoir, “Losing My Power Forward,” have helped others navigate grief and find hope.

## Ajak Deng: Continuing Manute Bol’s Humanitarian Legacy

Manute Bol was a legend not just for his height but for his heart. After his death, his wife Ajak Deng continued their humanitarian work in South Sudan, supporting youth and education through the Bright Stars basketball team and other initiatives. Ajak’s devotion has ensured that Manute’s dream of a thriving, united South Sudan lives on.

## Valerie Barry: Mental Health Advocacy After Ricky Berry

Ricky Berry’s death by suicide devastated his wife Valerie, but she turned her pain into a mission for mental health awareness. Living in Sacramento, Valerie works tirelessly to ensure others don’t suffer in silence, honoring Ricky’s memory by advocating for open conversations and support.

## Beyond the Headlines

These women have faced unimaginable loss, but instead of retreating, they’ve chosen to fight for causes that matter—heart health, road safety, cancer research, youth development, mental health, and humanitarian aid. Their stories remind us that legacies aren’t just built on the court, but in the lives changed after the final whistle.

**For more inspiring stories about the families of NBA legends and their impact beyond basketball, stay tuned.**