The tributes are pouring in on what would have been Kobe Bryant's 45th birthday ... with the late Lakers legend's wife, Vanessa, sharing an emotional post.
"Happy birthday, baby. I love you always & forever. u2764ufe0f #82378," Vanessa said on Instagram alongside several pics of the couple together.
Bryant's former teammates like Caron Butler and Carlos Boozer showed love in the comments ... as well as Lakers owner Jeanie Buss, who said, "A timeless and inspiring love story u2764ufe0fu2764ufe0fu2764ufe0fu2764ufe0f."
Bryant has been the center of countless social media posts on Wednesday .