Getty Image
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
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
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.”
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.
Vanessa Bryant just posted this about Kobe's contract with Nike expiring. pic.twitter.com/KR7hUTCxcn
— Lakers Outsiders (@LakersOutsiders) April 20, 2021