Nike honours late Kobe Bryant in poignant NYFW show

Nike has paid tribute to late basketball player Kobe Bryant, who died at the age of 41, with their New York Fashion Week show.

The sportswear brand paid tribute to the Los Angeles Lakers player, who died last month in a tragic helicopter crash alongside his daughter Gianna, 13.

The show featured the brand’s athleisure (ie clothing appropriate for both athletic activity and social or casual wear) line, designed for the upcoming 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

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During a poignant moment, six children walked out on to the catwalk wearing three versions of the classic Lakers team top featuring the numbers 8 and 24 (Bryant’s famous player numbers).

The children returned to the catwalk later on in the show for a dance segment performed alongside models and athletes.

Attendees at the show including rap artist Drake together with Nike collaborators Travis Scott and Kendrick Lamar and Off-White fashion designer Virgil Abloh.

Walking the catwalk was a number of high-profile athletes including British sprinter Dina Asher Smith.

Bryant himself had a close connection with Nike, having signed a $40 million (£31 million) deal with the brand back in 2003.

“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.”

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In the days following Bryant’s death, Nike reported that they had sold out of all products associated with Bryant.

Searches for “Kobe Bryant” on the Nike website now automatically redirect to a memorial message for the NBA star.

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