As if Kobe Bryant’s sneakers weren’t already the most dominant presence on the basketball court, Nike is elevating the Black Mamba’s continuing presence in the women’s game with a special footwear-focused occasion. For the USC x UConn matchup, each and every player on both teams will take the floor in a different pair of Kobe sneakers.
Marking a first for the brand, this show of solidarity represents the respective school’s recognition of Kobe’s impact on the game and his connection to the athletic programs at both schools. He frequently spoke at USC and hosted early Mamba Academy camps at the Galen Center, while his longstanding relationship with UConn—and Gianna Bryant’s own dream of becoming a Husky—cemented a powerful bond with the school. Through this footwear moment, Nike and the Kobe Brand honor that shared legacy, reminding athletes to attack every possession on offense and defense with Mamba Mentality.
UConn recently revealed what each athlete on its roster will wear; this includes the Kobe 6 “Statue of Liberty” for Serah Williams, the Kobe 5 “Year Of The Snake for Azzi Fudd, the Kobe 3 “Christmas Jana El Alfy, and more.
Meanwhile on the USC side, the women’s basketball program unleashed insane portraits of each of its athletes and their corresponding pairs. Jazzy Davidson is rocking the Kobe 4 “CHBL”, Kara Dunn sports the Kobe 9 EM “Mambacita”, Londyn Jones in the Kobe 9 Elite “Moonwalker”, and more.
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