Report: Nike sells out of Kobe Bryant gear from online store in wake of his death
Nike has sold out of all Kobe Bryant-related items from its online store in the wake of the basketball icon’s death.
An ESPN report from Monday stated that Nike had pulled the gear, before reporter Nick DePaula updated his story to state that a spokesman told him that the online store had indeed sold out of the gear.
Per DePaula’s report:
“Initially, a company source had specified that Nike had taken down existing items.”
The website’s Kobe Bryant shoes section points to a selection of generic Nike items. A search for “Kobe” yields an option to buy a Los Angeles Lakers-themed gift card. A search for “Kobe Bryant” points to Nike’s statement on Bryant’s death.
DePaula reports that the company is still reevaluating its strategy on how to handle the signature gear of the late basketball great and that Kobe gear already available in retail outlets is still available for purchase.
Bryant’s sneakers are a flagship of the Nike brand and popular among NBA players. Bryant was active in the design process for his signature shoes.
Players look to Kobes to pay tribute
Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic sported a pair of Kobes in Monday’s win over the the Oklahoma City Thunder. He wrote the names of the victims of the helicopter crash that claimed nine lives in Calabasas, California, on Sunday, including Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna.
Luka pays tribute to all the victims of yesterday's tragedy on his kicks tonight.
(via @dallasmavs) pic.twitter.com/2AXOi8znw1— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 28, 2020
Nike is also debating whether to move forward with the planned Feb. 7 launch of a new color scheme for the Kobe 5 Protros, according to the report.
Nike’s response to Kobe’s death
Nike’s statement regarding Bryant’s death reads as follows:
Along with millions of athletes and fans throughout the world, we are devastated by today’s tragic news. We extend our deepest sympathies to those closest to Kobe and Gianna, especially their family and friends.
As we are learning more details of the accident and the others who have tragically lost their lives, our heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone involved and impacted.
Kobe was one of the greatest athletes of his generation and has had an immeasurable impact on the world of sport and the community of basketball. He was a beloved member of the Nike family. We will miss him greatly. Mamba forever.
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