The iconic Kobe Bryant adidas EQT Elevation sneaker is reportedly making a comeback. Renamed the adidas Crazy 97 EQT, the sneaker brand is bringing back the same sneakers that Bryant wore during his unforgettable 1997 NBA Dunk Contest.
With Nike announcing that it will no longer be producing anymore of the Kobe silhouettes, adidas is seizing the opportunity to tap into the Mamba nostalgia surrounded by this iteration, famously worn by Bryant during the All-Star Weekend in Cleveland. The 1997 NBA Slam Dunk Contest saw Bryant claim the title as a then-18-year-old rookie. Bryant went up against Ray Allen, Michael Finley and Cleveland’s own Bob Sura for the title. The pair’s colorway pays perfect homage to the Los Angeles Lakers team colors, dressed in purple and featuring a yellow emblem on the heel. The upper also features three white stripes, further cementing that it is indeed an adidas shoe.
There is currently no official release date regarding the adidas Crazy 97 EQT but it is expected to arrive in 2022.
In other footwear news, New Balance and Raheem Sterling have partnered for Jamaica-inspired football boots.