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DeMar DeRozan Shows Off Unreleased Kobe Sneakers

DeMar DeRozan's debuted new sneakers from Kobe Bryant's signature Nike line.
Pat Benson|
DeMar DeRozan Shows Off Unreleased Kobe Sneakers
DeMar DeRozan Shows Off Unreleased Kobe Sneakers

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Chicago Bulls

The list of fans and supporters of the late-great Kobe Bryant is too long to count. However, when it comes to Bryant's acolytes in the NBA and sneaker world, one name rises to the top of every conversation - DeMar DeRozan.

The Chicago Bulls wing's admiration for Bryant is well-documented. Everyone knows DeRozan, a Southern California hoops legend and Nike-sponsored athlete is Bryant's most notable acolyte. Look no further than his shoes or devastating midrange game.

While DeRozan can easily receive unreleased player-exclusive colorways of models from the Nike Kobe line, the 33-year-old often prefers hooping in general release colorways.

However, DeRozan scored 19 points last night against the Orlando Magic in a never-before-seen colorway of the Nike Kobe 6 Protro. The shoes featured a gradient design on the scaly upper that faded from blue to orange to black around the heel. 

Nike Kobe 6 Protro

Hopefully, DeRozan's 'Sunset' (or 'Sunrise') player-exclusive colorway is a sign of things to come for the Nike Kobe line. The legendary performance basketball shoe line has been dormant since the 'Mambacita - Sweet 16' colorway was released in limited quantities last May.

It has been a long nine months for athletes and sneakerheads who love Bryant's shoes, but there is a reason for optimism. Several shoes from the Nike Kobe line are scheduled to be released in 2023.

The Nike Kobe 4 Protro and the Nike Kobe 6 Protro have both been confirmed to release in new colorways. Additionally, the Nike Kobe 8 Protro is launching later this year. With DeRozan showing off an unreleased colorway, we are hopeful it is a sign of the rebirth of the Nike Kobe line.

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Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers the sneaker industry for Kicks On Sports Illustrated. As a leading voice in footwear journalism, he breaks news, spotlights important stories, and interviews the biggest names in sports. Previously, Pat has reported on the NBA and authored "Kobe Bryant's Sneaker History (1996-2020)." You can email him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.

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