Vanessa Bryant faces backlash as fans accuse her of exploiting Kobe’s Legacy after new Dodgers gear unveiling

Vanessa Bryant is once again under the critical eye of fans of the late Kobe Bryant. Known as the Black Mamba, Kobe passed away five years ago in a tragic helicopter accident, leaving a significant void in the NBA.

Recently, headlines announced that Nike would launch a new baseball collection for the Dodgers based on Kobe’s colors as a tribute to him. This is where the criticisms and violent reactions from Kobe’s fans towards Vanessa Bryant come in. They accuse her of exploiting the legend’s legacy.

Fans displeased with Vanessa Bryant

According to a recent Instagram post by Nice Kicks, the sports brand will release baseball gear along with sneakers in 2025. This includes the Nike Kobe 6 Protro in the “Dodgers” colorway. The collection will be launched under the direction of Nike and Vanessa Bryant.

From what can be seen, the capsule includes a chest protector, shin guards, and sliding gloves for catchers. Additionally, the pieces aim to honor Bryant with the color combination. The items feature the Dodgers’ blue, accented with Kobe’s white logos and Swooshes, along with red to add more style.

 

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So far, so good. However, many Kobe fans have reacted both positively and negatively. Some applaud Nike’s tribute and eagerly await the launch. Others seem less enthusiastic, feeling disappointed by Vanessa Bryant’s decision.

Criticism Boom

Some believe that with this action, Vanessa Bryant is straying from the legacy and what her husband Kobe Bryant represents. In fact, many lashed out with hatred towards the widow in a flood of criticism, accusing both her and the brand of exploiting the name of the late player.

In some comments, fans lashed out with disdain and bluntness toward Vanessa Bryant. “They’re squeezing Kobe, huh?” Another added, “So they’re just making money off Kobe, huh?” Some even went further, writing, “Not only are they beating a dead horse, but they’re also squeezing it.”

Mixed reactions

With these harsh messages, the followers of the great NBA legend express that Vanessa Bryant might be using Kobe’s name to promote her products and profit from it. They argue that since the Dodgers are a baseball team, the Mamba brand should align with basketball, not other sports Kobe wasn’t involved in.

However, there’s another significant number of fans who feel excited about the news. They also applaud Vanessa Bryant for wanting to keep spreading Kobe’s sports message, regardless of the sport. “I DON’T EVEN PLAY BASEBALL AND I NEED THIS 🔥🔥🔥,” said one. Others added supportive comments, “Some of the comments here are weird. Why would people be mad at Kobe’s family making money off his clothes? Plus, the gear looks fantastic.”

Many fans fear that Mamba will become just a brand, instead of representing the legacy of a player who left a mark on and off the court. However, although Vanessa Bryant might benefit financially, she could also be interested in keeping Kobe’s influence alive, and this might be a way to achieve it.