As a young, aspiring hooper, DeMar DeRozan drew inspiration from one of his hero's worst games. For Kobe Bryant, Game 5 of the 1997 Western Conference Semifinals against the Utah Jazz is also known as the "Airball Game." Then a rookie, Bryant famously misfired on four shots down the stretch, ultimately costing the Lakers the game and the series. Bryant recently described the game as a turning point for him being able to deal with adversity, scrutiny and self-doubt.
DeRozan learned a similar lesson while watching the game at home. He then turned himself into a world class basketball player and became a representative of the Kobe Bryant on-court. As a tribute to his memory of the Bryant's bad outing, DeRozan receives a Nike Kobe A.D. PE. The shoe features the date of the "Airball Game" on the lace tips, DeRozan's hometown of Compton printed on the insoles and Jazz-inspired logo hits.
The Kobe A.D. "DeRozan PE" will release next Wednesday, Apr. 12 for $160 on SNKRS.
Nike Kobe A.D. "DeRozan PE"
Release Date: 04/12/17
Color: Light Bone/White/Pale Grey-Vivid Sky
Style #: 942301-900
Price: $160
UPDATE 4/5: Official images and confirmed release information via Nike.