Some stores aren't allowing price increases on Kobe merchandise, making sure no one profits off his deathNBAE/GETTY IMAGES
Nike is "figuring out its strategy for future new releases" of its now sold-out Kobe Bryant collection in the wake of his death, according to Newcomb & Ruhle of NBC NEWS. The site where fans could buy Bryant's shoes, jerseys, shirts and gear has now been "turned into a memorial page." A Nike spokesperson said that the company is currently "assessing how to handle future releases." NPD Group VP & Senior Sports Industry Adviser Matt Powell said that Nike's decision to not restock Bryant's products at this time is a "show of respect." Powell: "Nike did not want to appear to be profiting from this tragic accident." Newcomb & Ruhle noted some sneaker resale shops are "reportedly not allowing price increases on Bryant's sneakers, making sure no one profits off his death." However, on sites that have not committed to this, Powell said he expects the remaining shoes in the market will "likely go up as supply is limited" (NBCNEWS.com, 1/28).
HOMETOWN HERO: In Philadelphia, Erin Arvedlund notes the Mitchell & Ness there "still had a few" Bryant jerseys left in stock. Store GM Nibio Downer said they had "sold at least 200 jerseys since Sunday." Downer: "I haven't seen this kind of fan base come in for another player." He added that Mitchell & Ness "didn't raise prices after Bryant's unexpected death." Asked which of Bryant's jerseys was the more popular seller, Downer said, "No. 8. By far." Meanwhile, the $300 Bryant No. 8 jersey on Fanatics "was sold out" as of Monday night (PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER, 1/29).
