One of Kobe's Worst Games Inspired These DeMar DeRozan Sneakers

The City of Compton shouted out on Kobe Bryant's new sneakers.

Nike Kobe A.D. DeMar DeRozan Compton PE Release Date Profile 942301 900
Images via Nike
Nike Kobe A.D. DeMar DeRozan Compton PE Release Date Profile 942301 900

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.

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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.

Nike Kobe A.D. DeMar DeRozan Compton PE Release Date Sole 942301-900
Nike Kobe A.D. DeMar DeRozan Compton PE Release Date Tongue 942301-900
Nike Kobe A.D. DeMar DeRozan Compton PE Release Date Insole 942301-900

Nike Kobe AD Compton Release Date Main 852425-011
Nike Kobe AD Compton Release Date Sole 852425-011
Nike Kobe AD Compton Release Date Top 852425-011
Nike Kobe AD Compton Release Date Heel 852425-011