Vanessa Bryant Reveals the Fate of Kobe’s Partnership With Nike After 2021 Rift
Despite having a rift with Nike last year, Vanessa Bryant announced that her husband's estate and her family would continue their connection with the apparel giant to honor the legacy of Kobe Bryant and their daughter Gigi.
Taking to her official Instagram account, the late basketball legend's wife shared a photo of Nike's logo and her husband's trademark icon.
In the caption, she wrote, "We're excited to announce our partnership with Nike is going to continue!"
The former music video model added she's proud that many players in the NBA court demand Kobe's shoes, and it remained one of the most iconic footwear desired by fans worldwide.
Now that the partnership continues, Vanessa said fans would be able to purchase products specially designed to honor Gigi and Kobe.
Nike will also be donating 100% of the annual net proceedings of Gianna's shoes to their Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation.
In addition, the late legend's wife said she would work with the apparel giant to establish a youth basketball center in Southern California.
"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!" she concluded. (via Sports Illustrated)
President and CEO of Nike Inc. John Donahoe issued a press release, saying The Black Mamba means so much to many people within the NBA and around the world.
Donahoe also commended the late athlete, saying he had a significant impact in growing basketball, especially in young women and the youth.
Under the new line, the first pair of shoes will be "Mambacita Sweet 16" to honor Gigi Bryant.
Vanessa's recent announcement comes a year after she and her husband's estate decided not to renew their partnership with Nike. The late basketball star's contract expired last April.
According to sources, as reported by ESPN, Vanessa and the estate were frustrated with Nike after limiting the availability of Kobe's products during his retirement and after he passed away in January 2020.
In a previous statement, the wife said she would continue to fight for her hope that her husband's fans would get to wear his products.
She added that she's hoping to forge a lifelong relationship with the company that would reflect her husband's legacy, and she will do everything to honor Kobe and Gigi.
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