Nike is set to launch a special Kobe Bryant sneaker, the Kobe 8 Protro Halo, on August 23, which would have been the NBA legend’s 45th birthday. This unique footwear is particularly meaningful as it was designed by Vanessa Bryant, his widow, and it holds a personal and touching significance.
The Kobe 8 Protro Halo is part of the “Halo” concept, an annual release that commemorates and celebrates this significant date, according to a statement by Nike. Vanessa Bryant gave fans a sneak peek of the shoe through an Instagram post, featuring a sleek black-and-white video of the sneaker elegantly making contact with a basketball.
The announcement was also made on Nike’s social media platforms, emphasizing the continuation of Kobe Bryant’s legacy. The Kobe Protro 8 ‘Halo’ showcases a triple white colorway paired with the iconic Kobe 8 silhouette, symbolizing the timeless impact of an unforgettable icon.
Nike revealed that the Kobe 8 Protro Halo features an embroidered Swoosh and an embroidered Mamba logo, adding a personal touch to the design. The inclusion of Nike’s React foam promises both comfort and responsiveness, ensuring a well-rounded and practical design.
Coinciding with the shoe launch and Bryant’s birthday, a two-day youth basketball tournament, the Mamba League Invitational, will take place in front of the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, the former home of the Lakers, Kobe’s NBA team. The tournament invites talented high school players from Los Angeles to compete, concluding with the championship game on Mamba Day, August 24.
This release follows the renewed partnership between the Bryant estate and Nike, allowing for the availability of Kobe Bryant-branded products and merchandise related to his late daughter Gianna. Proceeds from sales of the Gianna shoe will be donated to the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation.
As Kobe Bryant’s legacy continues to thrive through endeavors like this special sneaker release, his impact on and off the court remains a source of inspiration for fans around the world.