Home / Sports / LaVar Ball Credits Nike for Kobe Bryant's Stardom
LaVar Ball Credits Nike for Kobe Bryant's Stardom
2 Dec, 2025
Summary
- LaVar Ball claims Nike propelled Kobe Bryant to global recognition.
- Bryant played his first six NBA years with Adidas, winning three championships.
- Luka Doncic is nearing a Kobe Bryant scoring record with the Lakers.
LaVar Ball has ignited a debate by asserting that Nike was the primary force behind Kobe Bryant's global fame. Ball suggested that without Nike's extensive marketing, Bryant, like Tiger Woods, might not have achieved such widespread recognition.
This claim contrasts with Bryant's early career, where he spent his first six NBA seasons with Adidas. During this period, Bryant achieved significant success, including three championships and multiple All-Star selections, before signing with Nike in 2003.
Ironically, Bryant's move to Nike coincided with a period of team struggles and personal challenges. Nevertheless, Bryant concluded his two-decade career as an elite player. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic is currently on the verge of breaking a scoring record co-owned by the late Lakers legend.
