During Nike’s Q4 earnings call for 2023, some exciting news emerged for sneaker enthusiasts. The sportswear giant announced the relaunch of Kobe Bryant‘s signature line, set to debut on August 24, 2023, known as Kobe Day. This announcement comes after a period of uncertainty following Bryant’s tragic passing in January 2020 and the expiration of his partnership with Nike in 2021.
The Kobe line experienced a tumultuous journey in recent years, with a few releases and leaks trickling out in 2021 as part of the expired deal. However, the leak of the Kobe Protro 6 “Mambacita Sweet 16” caused controversy, drawing the attention of Bryant’s wife, Vanessa Bryant. She expressed her disapproval, stating that the shoes were not authorized for sale and questioned how they ended up in someone else’s possession.
In March 2022, Nike mended the situation by announcing a new partnership with Kobe’s estate and officially introducing the “Mambacita Sweet 16.” Since then, news of upcoming Nike Kobe releases has steadily emerged, including the rumored Kobe 6 “Prelude,” Kobe 6 “Reverse Grinch,” and Kobe 8 “Triple White.” Additionally, NBA player DeMar DeRozan signed a four-year deal to remain the face of the Nike Kobe line.
Nike’s decision to relaunch the Kobe line comes at a crucial time for the brand. Nike has faced challenges such as excess inventory and waning interest in some of its energy products. While specific details about the line’s return are yet to be disclosed, fans can anticipate more information and releases in the coming months.
- Q: When will Nike relaunch Kobe Bryant’s signature line?
- A: Nike will relaunch Kobe Bryant’s signature line on August 24, 2023, known as Kobe Day.
- Q: What caused controversy surrounding the Kobe line in 2021?
- A: The leak of the Kobe Protro 6 “Mambacita Sweet 16” caused controversy as it was not authorized for sale, leading to disapproval from Kobe Bryant’s wife, Vanessa Bryant.
- Q: Who will continue to be the face of the Nike Kobe line?
- A: NBA player DeMar DeRozan has signed a four-year deal with Nike and will remain the face of the Nike Kobe line.
Kobe Bryant, born on August 23, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an iconic professional basketball player who spent his entire 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Bryant’s remarkable skills and competitive spirit earned him numerous accolades, including five NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and four All-Star Game MVPs. Off the court, Bryant was an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Academy Award-winning filmmaker. His untimely passing in January 2020 left a lasting impact on the basketball community and beyond, cementing his legacy as a sporting legend.
