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After the tragic news of Kobe Bryant’s death, Nike issued a statement celebrating the life and legacy of the Black Mamba. Unfortunately, the news of Kobe’s passing also elicited a response from people trying to maximize their profit after the death of the Lakers legend.
Although some consignment shops and resellers have been vocal of not raising prices or even taking in Kobe-related product, prices on eBay and StockX have skyrocketed after the tragic news was confirmed.
While Nike hasn’t necessarily addressed the reselling market of Kobe Bryant’s sneakers or apparel, the Swoosh has removed all of its Kobe-related product following the news. While there wasn’t much, it seems that Nike is taking a different direction in remembering Kobe.
UPDATE: Multiple reports indicate that Nike did not remove Kobe-related product from its site. It seems that all product related to the late Los Angeles Laker actually sold out.
It’ll be interesting to see how Nike goes about Kobe product in the future. As the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 got the Protro treatment last year, the Kobe 5 was headed in the same direction with expectations of the Kobe 6 coming back in that same light.
Speculation has risen that Nike might reconsider releasing the Nike Zoom Kobe 5 Protro “Big Stage Parade” that’s pictured above. The shoe was set to release on Feb. 7 with potentially more Kobe 5s coming down the way.
What are your thoughts? Should Nike halt its Kobe product or release it to the masses? Let us know on social media as the story continues to develop.
