The estate of the late great Kobe Bryant has reportedly come to terms with Nike to continue producing both footwear and apparel for the foreseeable future. Talks had previously stalled after Bryant’s endorsement deal with the athletic apparel giant expired roughly a year ago.
In a press release posted to the company website, Nike announced that they had come to terms with the estate and Vanessa Bryant on a new partnership that will focus on getting youth involved in sport.
“Kobe Bryant means so much to so many of us, not just NBA fans but globally beyond the game,” says John Donahoe, President & CEO, NIKE, Inc. “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.”
“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,” says Vanessa Bryant.
The first new Kobe shoe release, dubbed the Kobe 6 Protro “Mambacita Sweet 16” will honor Gigi Bryant. All proceeds from the shoe will benefit the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, per the new agreement with the Bryant family. Although an official release date for the shoe has not been confirmed, many have heard whispers that May 1st could be a logical launch day. That date would have been Gianna Bryant’s 16th birthday.
In addition to the apparel related news, Vanessa Bryant confirmed on her Instagram account that the estate and Nike had agreed to build a dedicated basketball facility to honour Kobe and Gigi’s legacies.
“I am also grateful that Nike and I will work together to establish a youth basketball center in Southern California that will share the Mamba Mentality with youth athletes for generations to come. I know this is an inspiring moment for my husband and daughter’s global fans, and I am very appreciative of each and every one of you!” the post read.
The re-launch of Kobe’s existing shoeline, plus any future versions of his namesake sneaker will also now include kids sizes as well.
-Kyle Skinner
Twitter: @JKyleSkinner