Nike has already sold out of Kobe Bryant merchandise online, so the company will now change its strategy on how it will sell clothing items and shoes for the late Los Angeles Lakers legend, who died on Sunday in a helicopter crash.
What’s going on: Nike sold out of all Kobe Bryant-related merchandise on its website, according to USA Today.
- A search for Kobe Bryant items reveals a page with a yellow and gold Nike gift card. That’s it. No shoes, no jerseys, no shirts — nothing.
- Per USA Today. Nike has seen an increase in sales for its Bryant products.
- Kobe Bryant is featured on the main page for Nike.com.
Nike has a statement on its website about Kobe.
“Along with millions of athletes and fans throughout the world, we are devastated by today’s tragic news. We extend our deepest sympathies to those closest to Kobe and Gianna, especially their family and friends.
“As we are learning more details of the accident and the others who have tragically lost their lives, our heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone involved and impacted.
“Kobe was one of the greatest athletes of his generation and has had an immeasurable impact on the world of sport and the community of basketball. He was a beloved member of the Nike family. We will miss him greatly. Mamba forever.”
Strategy: Now, Nike plans to change its strategy for Bryant-related products, according to ESPN. The company wants to limit the amount of reselling going on by third parties, too.
Third-party sellers have reportedly sold Bryant-related merchandise for an increased price in the wake of his death, ESPN reports.
Bigger picture: Nike planned to release a new celebratory colorway for Bryant on Feb. 7 called the Kobe 5 Protro. But the company will postpone the launch due to the tragedy, ESPN reports.
NBA stars: Plenty of NBA stars paid tribute to Bryant over the last two days, according to Yahoo! Sports. Several players wore Kobe shoes to honor the late legend.