Vanessa Bryant announced Thursday that the Kobe Bryant estate’s partnership with Nike will continue, with the first new shoe to honor Gigi Bryant.
The shoe will be called the Kobe 6 Protro “Mambacita Sweet 16” with all proceeds benefiting the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation.
Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, were killed in a helicopter crash alongside seven others in January 2020.
“I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world,” Bryant wrote on Instagram. “I know this is an inspiring moment for my husband and daughter’s global fans, and I am very appreciative of each and every one of you!”
As part of the partnership, the two sides will work together to develop “a youth basketball center in Southern California that will share the Mamba Mentality with youth athletes for generations to come,” Bryant wrote.
The news comes almost a year after Kobe Bryant’s initial endorsement deal with Nike expired. Vanessa was vocal last year about the shoe company making sneakers dedicated to her daughter Gigi without her consent.
Many responded to the news of the renewed partnership with joy. Dwyane Wade said on Instagram that it’s “how it should be!!”
Sabrina Ionescu, who is close with the Bryant family and has been since before Kobe and Gigi’s death, said that she wants to “repost this 100 more times.”
“Boss moves V!” wrote WNBA legend Lisa Leslie. “You did this your way!!! Brava.”