Several top NCAA basketball programs have been selected as “Mamba Programs” and will have the honor of wearing Kobe Bryant’s Nike sneakers during the upcoming season. The announcement came from Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, who shared the news on social media.
Key Takeaway
Several top NCAA basketball programs, including USC, Kentucky, Oregon, Duke, LSU, and UConn, have been selected as “Mamba Programs” and will wear Kobe Bryant’s Nike sneakers this season. Vanessa Bryant shared the news, expressing her enthusiasm for seeing players represent her late husband’s brand on the court. The selection of these prestigious universities highlights the impact Kobe had on basketball and his enduring legacy.
Vanessa expressed her excitement about seeing players from these universities donning Kobe and Gigi’s NIKE shoes on the court. The selected schools are USC, Kentucky, Oregon, Duke, LSU, and UConn. These prestigious institutions were chosen to represent the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation and continue the legacies of Kobe and Gigi.
Excitement Surrounds the Selection
The inclusion of these powerhouse teams has generated immense excitement among basketball fans and followers. USC, in particular, is drawing attention since it features Bronny James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, as one of its players. Seeing him wear Kobe Bryant’s signature sneakers is sure to create a special connection between two basketball dynasties.
Alongside USC, other notable universities like Kentucky, Oregon, Duke, LSU, and UConn have also been chosen. Each of these schools has a rich basketball tradition and a strong connection to the late basketball icon. For example, UConn was passionately supported by Gigi Bryant, Kobe’s daughter. The selection of these universities underscores the impact and influence Kobe had on the sports world.
New Styles of Kobe’s Shoes
Vanessa Bryant did not specifically mention which Kobe Bryant shoes these teams would be wearing. However, it is worth noting that Nike recently relaunched Bryant’s line with the release of the Protro 8 “Halos” on what would have been Kobe’s 45th birthday in August. The Protro 8 “Halos” received a positive response from fans and collectors alike. It appears that Vanessa played a role in the design process and has hinted at more exciting styles to come.
