Nike’s innovative sportswear is worn by many of the world's top athletes and tastemakers alike. Catering to a variety of exercise regimes, our edit includes the racer-back ‘Pro’ tank and medium support ‘Fierce’ bra – all cut from the brand’s signature moisture-wicking Dri-FIT fabric for comfort. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram; these are one of the main social media platforms that Nike uses to communicate and connect with its consumers around the globe, as well as selling its merchandise.
We’re beginning to learn about the fallout between Nike and Kobe Bryant’s estate.
On Monday, it was reported that “Nike and Kobe were done” after the two sides couldn’t come to an agreement to renew their recently expired contract.
The Kobe Bryant/Nike deal has ended, expired this month, and his estate is now free to negotiate a new deal with other brands, sources say.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 20, 2021
At 6:36 AM today I received a text:
“Vanessa Bryant did not renew contract. Kobe and Nike are done.”
I’ve been working since to confirm what this means ahead for the Nike / Kobe Bryant partnership.
As of right now — there is no ongoing contract for future Kobe releases. pic.twitter.com/5vuyQg6Gw6
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 19, 2021 Find my friends macbook.
Kobe originally signed a 5-year endorsement deal extension with Nike after retiring in April, 2016. https://t.co/3ndzFMbprq
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 19, 2021
ESPN’s Nick DePaula went on to reveal that there Bryant’s estate was not offered a similar “lifetime” contract structure given to LeBron James and Michael Jordan.
Via ESPN
Nike Twitter Feed
According to a source, Bryant and the estate had grown frustrated with Nike limiting the availability of Kobe product during his retirement and after his January 2020 death in a helicopter crash,” wrote DePaula. “There was also frustration with the lack of availability of Kobe footwear in kids sizes, according to sources.
“Nike, sources said, had presented an extension offer that was not in line with expectations of an ongoing ‘lifetime’ structure similar to the Nike Inc. contracts held by both Michael Jordan and LeBron James.”
Nike Twitter Colin Kaepernick
Vanessa Bryant posted a statement regarding the contract situation in which she said she had hoped to forge “a lifelong partnership with Nike” that would honor her husband’s legacy.
Nike Twitter Backgrounds
Vanessa Bryant just posted this about Kobe's contract with Nike expiring. pic.twitter.com/KR7hUTCxcn
Nike Shoe
— Lakers Outsiders (@LakersOutsiders) April 20, 2021