ARDMORE, PA — Nike is releasing a new Kobe Bryant sneaker inspired by Lower Merion High School, his alma mater.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Lower Merion Aces” are set to drop March 23, according to Complex Sneakers. The shoes will feature a maroon and metallic silver color scheme, emblematic of the high school’s colors.
The left and right heel will have an ace graphic and Bryant’s high school number, 33, respectively, according to Women’s Wear Daily.
Nike also released Kobe’s honoring Lower Merion High School in 2010.
Bryant played basketball for Lower Merion High School from 1992-96, leading the Aces to the 1996 state championship and being named Naismith High School Player of the Year, Gatorade National Basketball Player of the Year, and a McDonald’s All-American.
He declared for the NBA Draft out of high school, getting selected by the Charlotte Hornets and then traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. As Bryant ascended in the pros, Lower Merion High School became known to NBA fans worldwide.
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“Mr. Bryant’s connection to Lower Merion High School, where he played basketball prior to joining the NBA, has raised the profile of the high school and our District throughout the world,” the Lower Merion School District said after Bryant’s death in 2020. “Our school community will always be grateful for his ongoing generosity to his alma mater, including his dedication of our Kobe Bryant Gymnasium and his support of our boys’ and girls’ basketball teams.”
Lower Merion High School is located in Ardmore.