Kobe Shoe Explodes Mid-Game in China
A pro hooper in China, Isaiah Canaan, who plays in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), had a shocking moment when he blew completely through his shoes. This happened midway through the game—after cutting sharply, Canaan tore through his shoe. The shoes were a pair of Kobe 5’s that many players wear around the world.
This is an embarrassing moment for Nike as it is the second time this has happened on national television—the previous incident being when Zion Williamson at Duke tore through a pair of Nike sneakers during a game. This raises questions as to whether Nike is maintaining the quality it has been known for and if its shoes can withstand the sharp cutting movements players are using today.
Many people online are debating whether older models of Nike shoes can hold up against the fast-paced nature of the modern game. Although Nike hasn’t commented on the situation yet, it has undoubtedly sparked conversations about the durability and quality of their basketball sneakers.
Adidas even chimed in with a jab at Nike, sharing pictures of their newly released shoes as “superior replacements”.
“Superior Replacements”
Will this be the end of Nike basketball shoes in the professional setting? Nike has long been known for its quality basketball shoes; however, recently there have been increasing complaints about Nike products—especially in basketball—falling apart and not living up to the brand’s usual standards. They will need to step up before competitors like Adidas and New Balance start to overtake them.
