Vanessa Bryant Speaks About End Of Kobe's Nike Contract

She wrote she hoped to "forge a lifelong partnership with Nike."

BYErika Marie
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Following the news that Kobe Bryant's family has decided not to renew the late sports icon's contract with Nike, Vanessa Bryant has issued a statement. Kobe and the sports brand had a longstanding relationship that has existed for nearly two decades, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. There has been speculation regarding why this partnership couldn't move forward, including rumors about the Bryant family building new "Mamba" and "Mambacita" brands, and amid the conversations, Vanessa has made her voice heard on Instagram.

"Kobe's Nike contract expired on 4/3/21," Vanessa began. "Kobe and Nike have made some of the most beautiful basketball shoes of all time, worn and adored by fans and athletes in all sports across the globe."

Nicholas Hunt / Staff / Getty Images

"It seems fitting that more NBA players wear my husband's product than any other signature shoe," she continued. "My hope will always be to allow Kobe's fans to get and wear his products. I will continue to fight for that. Kobe's products sell out in seconds. That says everything. I was hoping to forge a lifelong partnership with Nike that reflects my husband's legacy."

"We will always do everything we can to honor Kobe and Gigi's legacies. That will never change." Check it out below.

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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.