One of the NBA’s finest is about to give new life to Kobe’s sneakers.

The New Featured Face Of The Kobes

According to sports reporter for The Athletic and Stadium Shams Charania, DeMar DeRozan will sign a four-year contract with Nike to be “the featured face of Kobe Bryant’s iconic line.”

DeMar DeRozan's Love For Kobe

Even before the announcement, the Chicago Bulls’ power forward has been outspoken about how the late legend not only guided him but has been such a great inspiration for his career. DeRozan has also been seen countless times rocking Kobe’s sneakers.

“For me personally, he meant everything to me basketball-wise,” he shared in January, per Bleacher Report. “That’s well documented, a mentor of mine, a friend of mine, someone that taught me a big part of the game and motivated me to have the mentality that I have today.”

The NBA Legend's Estate Re-Joining Nike

In March, AfroTech previously reported that Bryant’s estate resumed its partnership with Nike after initially splitting in April 2021. The shoes include “re-releases of the 11 signature Kobe models worn by Bryant during his career, and potentially his six post-career models as well.”

“We’re excited to announce our partnership with Nike is going to continue!” his wife Vanessa Bryant wrote via Instagram. “I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world.”

The new long-term deal is also for a great cause. In honor of Bryant’s legacy, Nike and Vanessa will work to launch a new basketball facility.

“I am also grateful that Nike and I will work together to establish a youth basketball center in Southern California that will share the Mamba Mentality with youth athletes for generations to come,” she wrote.