From freshman roommates to college graduates, Natalia Bryant and Storm Reid just walked into the next chapter of their lives, degrees in hand, history in motion, and a legacy of excellence that is stronger than ever.
On May 15th, the University of Southern California held its commencement ceremony at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Among the sea of proud graduates were two young women who’ve already made their mark far beyond the classroom. Natalia Bryant, the 22-year-old daughter of the late Kobe Bryant and Vanessa Bryant, received her degree in film from USC’s prestigious School of Cinematic Arts. Her former roommate, 21-year-old Emmy-nominated actress Storm Reid, known for her roles in Euphoria, Missing, and The Last of Us, also earned her degree in Dramatic Arts, BET reports.
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Natalia stepped into her moment in a stunning white dress, her red sash reading Cum Laude, a tribute stole honoring her father draped proudly across her shoulders. Her diploma was handed to her by none other than Jeanie Buss, controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, a full-circle moment for the daughter of the Black Mamba. Vanessa Bryant, beaming with pride, posted a heartfelt photo of her daughter, writing simply and beautifully, “We’re so proud of you [Natalia]!”
Storm Reid took to Instagram with a series of reflections that brought followers into her journey, writing, “There were so many times I didn’t think I’d make it… but with God? Anything is possible.” With honesty and grace, she opened up about the emotional toll, the divine perseverance, and the ultimate triumph: “What do we call my success PLUS a degree??”
Their bond runs deep; the two lived together during their freshman year at USC, and Storm once called Natalia “the best roomie a girl could ask for.” In the years since, they’ve grown into their own powerful paths. Natalia, balancing her studies with a rising modeling career, has said she’s committed to pursuing a future in film. With her cinematic degree and deep roots in storytelling, the possibilities are endless. And if the universe is feeling generous, perhaps one day we’ll get to see the two reunite on the big screen.
Until then, we celebrate what this moment represents, not just for Natalia and Storm, but for every Black girl dreaming, grinding, and pushing through. Their graduation is a reminder that excellence is not just inherited, it’s earned, nurtured, and lived out loud.
Through Natalia Bryant and Storm Reid, who carry legacies while building their own, we are reminded that the future is not only bright, it’s already here.
Cover photo: Natalia Bryant and Storm Reid Graduate From USC, Proving Black Girl Magic Has No Limits/Photo credit: @StormReid/@NataliaBryant/Instagram