Nike honors Kobe with Mamba Week

 

As the world commemorates Kobe Bryant's birthday (August 23, 1978), Nike has devoted one whole week for the legend, who passed away earlier this year.

It released on a video Sunday night (in Manila) that features the vocal stylings of recording artist Kendrick Lamar. Called Better, it celebrates the universal relevance of progress and highlights Kobe’s prolific desire for improvement. While incremental change may feel small in the short term, those subtle shifts culminate to greater progress over time. This relentless drive for improvement is part of the legacy Kobe leaves.

It is an offshoot of the "Mamba Mentality," a philosophy that is rooted in getting better, every day, in everything we do. In his own words, Kobe described it as, “It’s to constantly try to be the best version of yourself. It's a constant quest to try to be better today than you were yesterday."

In the Philippines, Nike, through Nike Philippines has its own ways of celebrating "Mamba Week."

Nike Philippines Country Marketing Manager Jino Ferrer shares, "Kobe’s memory is very much alive in the hearts of Filipinos today, as we remember his energy and charisma when he visited Manila in 2016. His legacy lives on and Mamba Mentality truly channels puso as Filipino ballers can relate; to be better each day and continue to elevate themselves and their game. It’s truly empowering, coupled with the voice of local athletes as we stay committed to serving the community, especially young women and girls as Kobe was dedicated towards."

Appropriately on August 24 (8/24), there will be a "Mamba Mentality Live," a virtual gathering of athletes and Kobe fans will come together to discuss his impact on the next generation in pursuit of a better version of themselves. NLEX guard Kiefer Ravena, Alab Pilipinas head coach Jimmy Alapag, National University women's basketball standout Camille Clarin, and differently-abled inspiration Kat Tan are expected to share their thoughts, experiences, and wisdom both on and off the court.

Also present at "Mamba Mentality Live" to share their own thoughts and perspectives is the non-profit-organization Girls Got Game Philippines. Already a partner with Nike Philippines as it aligns with their goals of getting young women and girls active, GGG remains dedicated to empower young women and girls through a variety of sports – to bring to life programs highlighting mental, physical and emotional benefits sport can bring to enrich their lives. Their presence lends to Kobe's commitment later in life towards women's sports, something that he took on his final day, as he was about to head towards a tournament he was supposed to coach his daughter, Gianna, in. 

In addition, those who have the Nike Training Club app will have sessions highlighting Mamba Mentality pillars (i.e. Passion, Optimism, Fearless, Focus and Honesty).

Sneakerheads will rejoice with the upcoming release of specific colorways of the Kobe V Protro, while Lakers fans will definitely try to cop a limited edition Lakers jersey.

For more details about Mamba Week, you can check out the specifics here.