Vanessa Bryant is proving to be as fierce and strong as her late husband, Kobe. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department discovered that firsthand, and now Nike has learned that Vanessa makes no compromises when it comes to defending Kobe’s legacy and value.
A report in Footwear News said Nike will be collaborating with the Bryant family through a partnership with Vanessa that will “inspire a new generation of athletes and encourage youth participation in sport.”
This follows a public tiff in the past year that led to Vanessa disassociating herself from the shoe company Kobe represented almost his entire career.
In the new collar, Nike will create a shoe called the Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Mambacita Sweet 16.” These are court-ready basketball shoes honoring Kobe and Vanessa’s daughter Gigi Bryant. Nike said in a statement the proceeds would benefit the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation.
No word on price yet, but Nike confirmed it would be coming out soon.
Here’s part of Vanessa’s statement after the deal was hatched.
“I am happy to announce that we will continue my husband’s legacy with Nike and look forward to expanding his and Gigi’s global impact by sharing the Mamba Mentality with youth athletes for generations to come.”
The previous deal Nike and the Bryant family had ended in April of 2021. Now they are back together for the long haul. Here’s a portion of Nike’s statement from CEO John Donahue.
“Kobe Bryant means so much to so many of us, not just NBA fans but globally beyond the game. His impact in growing the sport, particularly encouraging women and young people to pick it up, endures as one of his deepest, lasting legacies. Together with Vanessa, we hope to honor Kobe and Gigi by championing a new generation for many years to come.”
Add comment