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Bryant's estate opts not to renew Nike deal

Thearon W. Henderson / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Kobe Bryant's estate didn't renew the late Los Angeles Lakers legend's shoe contract with Nike, Vanessa Bryant told ESPN's Nick DePaula in a statement.

"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," Vanessa said. "It seems fitting that more NBA players wear my husband's product than any other signature shoe."

She added: "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."

Vanessa and the estate were reportedly frustrated by the limited availability of Kobe products during his retirement and after his death in January 2020, as well as the lack of Kobe footwear in children's sizes, DePaula reports.

The Bryant estate, which apparently received a subpar contract extension based on expectations, can now seek out a new deal with other brands if it chooses to.

"Kobe Bryant was an important part of Nike's deep connection to consumers. He pushed us and made everyone around him better," the company told DePaula in a statement. "Though our contractual relationship has ended, he remains a deeply loved member of the Nike family."

Bryant had been under contract with the shoe apparel giant since 2003. He released numerous signature sneakers with the brand while becoming one of its most marketable athletes.

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