The NBA world isn’t taking too kindly to the fact that Vanessa Bryant has decided to continue Kobe Bryant’s signature sneakers. We all know that the Los Angeles Lakers legend had a contract with Nike for a shoe line. It would appear that Nike is looking for a change and something to reconnect with its fans. Especially after terminating their deal with Kyrie Irving.
The Kobe 8 will be returning in a ‘triple-white’ Protro form late next year 🔥
Vanessa Bryant reached a deal to continue the Kobe and Nike relationship in March. pic.twitter.com/ZR5jYGhiaw
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) December 27, 2022
Fans found out that Vanessa finally came to an agreement with Nike to release a unique Nika Kobe 8. We all know that the Kobe 8 was one of the best Kobe Bryant shoes to ever be released. In order to cater to the public, Vanessa and Nike have agreed to bring back the Kobe 8 with a ‘triple white’ protro form. Here’s more about the shoe and how fans are reacting.
Fans have mixed opinions and criticize Vanessa for continuing the Nike Kobe 8 Protro form
These particular Kobe 8 shoes were a big hit with the fans. Therefore, plenty of people are excited and awaiting it. According to the reports, it is expected to be out sometime late next year. However, there is certainly a fair share of people who are also criticizing Vanessa and making accusations.
“Gold Digger”
Gold Digger
— Brian (@Brian_Flaps) December 27, 2022
Late next year? She is the worst…halts production of the best shoe in the game and when they do drop it’s impossible to get a pair/they’re a year out fml
— TigersHoops23 (@mnsportsfan55) December 27, 2022
Fans are also split on whether the white design is appealing and feel like Vanessa need not have gone through with this contract with Nike. They would certainly have a valid point. After Kobe Bryant’s unfortunate death along with several others, Vanessa’s net worth is estimated to be over $600 million. Therefore, there was no real need for her to enter into another business deal. Moreoever, one that her late husband’s name is attached to.
Kobe 8 > literally anything ever created
— shayan (@shayoff) December 27, 2022
Kinda stinky
— SheLuvDomas(not a kings fan) (@NBAFactSpeaker3) December 27, 2022
That is where the conflict lies. It is fully possible that Vanessa Bryant is simply catering to what the people want. After all, they are millions of die-hard Kobe Bryant fans across the world. However, these extended contract negotiations with Nike, alongside not disclosing the contract figures allow people to use this opportunity to slander her.
Is that the same one who made millions off of suing the fbi? And now she’s going to be profiting off his shoes? Disgusting
— Rick Scottsdale (@NflLover69) December 27, 2022
Now this I will gladly buy. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/cGI0yJtDVr
— SonOfChar0079 (@SonOfChar0079) December 27, 2022
Hopefully, the shoe is a huge hit amongst fans and sells well. Even if it does not, we seriously doubt that Vanessa Bryant and her family will be less well off as a result.