Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks All-Star caliber guard, has been an important topic of discussion lately. He starred recently in a Nike commercial promoting the new Kobe 3 Protro sneaker with Natalia Bryant, the oldest daughter of the late basketball great Kobe Bryant. The ad spotlights Brunson’s passion for Kobe sneakers. It highlights his remarkable play on the court as of late and it shines a light on his profound connection to the Bryant legacy.
Throughout the 2025 NBA playoffs, Brunson laced up the neck-breaking “Hyper Turquoise” Kobe 6 PE (player edition) sneakers. The idea for this beautiful design came directly from the Statue of Liberty. His selection of footwear is clearly indicative of his extreme admiration for the legacy of Kobe. Through his original flair, he is deeply engaged to celebrate the iconic athlete. Brunson certainly made the most of that in March 2024, netting a career-high 61 points. He wore the unmistakable Kobe 6 Protro Grinch shoes in the game, confirming his status as a true Kobe sneaker fan.
In the just-dropped Nike commercial, Brunson walks into a jewelry store on New York’s 47th street, looking for “something special.” Well into his quest to find the perfect piece of jewelry, he is struck by the sight of an all-white Kobe 3 Protro sneaker. The ad cleverly intertwines his search for a one-of-a-kind item with the release of the sneaker. Brunson asks, “What is she doing?” — reflecting on the sneaker’s sleek design.
Scheduled for release on what would have been Kobe Bryant’s 47th birthday, the all-white Kobe 3 Protro sneaker symbolizes a tribute to Bryant’s enduring legacy. The KOBE A.D. sneaker is built for the game, as it currently is played. It features fresh diamond cuts across its upper and outsole, honoring Natalia Bryant’s middle name, Diamanté. This intentional touch increases the deeply personal connection between the product and the Bryant family.
The Kobe 3 Protro marks Nike’s biggest return of Kobe’s sneakers ever. It also re-introduces classic, hard to find, kicks that Bryant stepped in throughout that 2007-08 MVP winning season. This initiative underscores Nike’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Kobe Bryant’s influence in basketball and sneaker culture.
Brunson’s performance pairs beautifully with Natalia Bryant’s stunning visuals to make the ad shine. This new partnership beautifully illustrates and reminds us of Kobe’s impact on both their lives. They serve as a realistic reminder that at the highest levels, competitive excellence is an exercise in strategic scope. Their emotional legacy lives on today, inspiring athletes and sports fans everywhere.
Leave a Reply