Pop superstar Taylor Swift made a rare return to TikTok—and it was for a special reason. She showed support for Natalia Bryant, the daughter of late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, who just graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with honors.
Natalia Bryant graduates from USC with Kobe's iconic Mamba logo on her stole ????????❤️ pic.twitter.com/tEnjuBboc6
— Sole Retriever (@SoleRetriever) May 16, 2025
Taylor liked Natalia’s TikTok video posted on May 18, 2025, where Natalia and her friends lip-synced to Swift’s emotional song “Nothing New.” The track’s lyrics reflect the challenges of growing up and entering adulthood, making it a perfect choice for graduation.
Swift’s like was her first TikTok activity since December 2024, following the end of her Eras Tour.
image source:x/twitter
During the ceremony, Natalia wore a custom graduation stole that read “Thank you Mom & Dad.” It also included the Nike sheath logo in memory of her father, Kobe Bryant. The logo symbolizes hard work and raw talent—qualities Kobe lived by.
In a heartwarming moment, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss personally handed Natalia her diploma, showing just how loved she is by the Lakers family.
image source:x/twitter
The Bryant family has always been big fans of Taylor Swift. Natalia once shared that both her parents loved Swift’s music and even attended her concerts. In fact, Kobe famously honored Swift onstage during her 1989 Tour in 2015, praising her creativity and lasting impact on the music world.
Now, years later, Taylor Swift returned the love by celebrating Natalia’s big moment.
image source:x/twitter
This graduation wasn’t just a personal milestone for Natalia—it was a moment that brought together family, friends, the Lakers community, and even Taylor Swift.