Summary
Nike originally planned to use the Black Mamba concept for a Michael Jordan shoe, but Jordan did not like snakes. Kobe Bryant later adopted the Black Mamba persona, which became a widely recognized part of his identity during his NBA career.
Key Facts
- Nike created a Black Mamba ad campaign for Michael Jordan's Air Jordan 19s.
- The idea involved using a laceless, snake-scale-like material called Tech Flex.
- Jordan did not like snakes, so Nike changed the design.
- Kobe Bryant adopted the Black Mamba nickname after being inspired by the film "Kill Bill Vol. 2."
- Bryant's first prominent use of the Black Mamba name was in 2005.
- Kobe Bryant won the NBA's Most Valuable Player award in 2008.
- He also won NBA championships in 2009 and 2010 and was named Finals MVP both times.
- Bryant's jersey numbers 8 and 24 are retired by the Los Angeles Lakers.
