South Carolina Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley has given a heartening shoutout to late Kobe Bryant’s wife, Vanessa, for the blessings she has received from her. On Sunday, Nov. 2, Staley took to Instagram to share a post, showcasing a plethora of options from five-time NBA champion Kobe’s signature shoe line with Nike.
In the photo, Staley included famous pairs such as the Nike Kobe VI Protro in the Grinch, Reverse Grinch, Sail, Dodgers and Total Orange colorways, the Nike Kobe V Protro in the Caitlin Clark and Year of the Mamba Black iterations, etc.
It was then confirmed through Staley’s caption that the huge number of pairs came from Vanessa Bryant herself, with whom Staley has kept a close relationship. Staley claimed in her heartfelt caption that she believes that the work that Vanessa has done to maintain the respected legacy of her late husband has been nothing short of a success, just as the coach is remembering Kobe Bryant with her post.
“Just thinking about Kobe Bean Bryant @kobebryant today…and thankful for @vanessabryant who is keeping their untouchable legacy top tier! #salute,” Staley captioned.
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Staley and the Gamecocks will enter the 2025-26 college basketball season in a few days, with their final campaign being sponsored by global sportswear brand Under Armour. It was reported on Aug. 22 of this year that the University of South Carolina will be shifting its apparel and footwear providers to Nike in the 2026-27 season after over a decade of being backed by Under Armour.
Also Read: UConn Star Paige Bueckers Reflects on Kobe, Gigi Bryant’s Impacting Their NCAA Tournament Run
Vanessa Bryant Left A Welcoming Comment On Dawn Staley’s Post
Among those who were in awe of the Nike Kobe collection of Dawn Staley was Vanessa Bryant, who dropped a message for Coach Staley in the comments section. Vanessa went with a one-word reaction to welcome Staley for the package she had sent.
“Xoxo @staley05,” Vanessa Bryant commented with a trio of emojis.
Given the Gamecocks’ new deal with Nike, it is more than likely that fans and spectators will get to see Staley wearing some of the aforementioned shoes on the bench come next year.
Read More: “Y’all Suck”: Dawn Staley Reveals Text to A’ja Wilson Which Inspired Aces’ WNBA Championship
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