Vanessa Bryant went through severe struggles following the death of her husband, Kobe Bryant, and daughter, Gianna Bryant. Their passing was very untimely and ones dear to the legend were left in shambles. The Black Mamba had left behind an unmatchable legacy as he dominated the floor for 20 years. Kobe was also venturing out into the world of business and social work as well. He excelled in his work all while being a strong advocate for women in sports.
After their passing, Nike released a pair of sneakers in honor of Gigi. But Vanessa Bryant had no authority over it, she claimed. Nike released the sneakers without her permission which later caused issues. Vanessa designed the shoe but had decided she wasn’t going to sell them. She also decided not to resign from the shoe brand either. However, on seeing the ever-flowing support from fans, the 41-year-old decided it was only right that she continued Kobe and Gigi’s legacy through Nike.
⚪️👀 The details on the upcoming Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Halo.”
Releasing on Kobe Bryant’s birthday (8/23). pic.twitter.com/xyFR1BpHWd
— KICKS CREW (@kickscrew) August 14, 2023
Nike and Vanessa Bryant came to a brand new agreement in March 2022, two years after their passing. She announced their partnership via Instagram saying, “We are so excited to announce our partnership with Nike is going to continue.” Right now, all proceeds made by Kobe’s signature sneakers will be donated to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation. Both parties have been working together to continue the iconic sneaker line.
Other programs to be added to Nike’s latest venture besides Vanessa Bryant’s Wildcats pick
Kobe Bryant’s signature sneakers have been around for a while and several NBA players currently wear them during games. Players such as DeMar DeRozan, Devin Booker, and Anthony Davis all wear the Mamba’s signature kicks. Vanessa Bryant and Nike’s team of experts have worked on a new release expected to drop on Kobe’s 45th birthday. Vanessa had designed the shoe and named it “Halo” Proto 8s.
The University of Kentucky has been selected by Vanessa Bryant to become the first Kobe Brand sponsored school 🐍😼 pic.twitter.com/VZ2JAsHpJb
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) August 14, 2023
Following their newest agreement, Vanessa Bryant announced that the University of Kentucky will be the first to be sponsored by Kobe’s brand. The Kentucky Wildcats are known as one of the best college basketball teams around today. They will be provided with exclusive Kentucky x Kobe-themed shoes and apparel as well.
However, Kentucky will be one of many programs to be signed under the Mamba’s brand. Players of today honor the Los Angeles Lakers legend in various ways. He had an exceptional career that spanned 20 years only with the Lakers, winning five NBA titles and several other accolades along the way.