Playing in the Past: When NBA Players Lace Up Models of Yesteryear

Kobe Bryant – adidas The Kobe

First Released: 2000
Last Worn: 2002

Kobe’s below the ankle Nikes get a lot of love, and for good reason. The high-tech kicks took a big risk by being low tops. While such styling has influenced the industry and sold well, Mr. Bryant may have played his best ball in the adidas The Kobe. Following a first ring win in the space-age sneakers and other signatures to follow, KB8 returned to the AK1s for his next two NBA Finals wins.