Brunson Channels Kobe Legacy With New Knicks-Themed Nike Kobe 3 PE

For the past several seasons, the New York Knicks’ ceiling has been closely tied to the performance and leadership of Jalen Brunson. The All-Star guard has elevated his game in consecutive postseason runs, emerging as the franchise’s clear focal point and emotional engine.

Brunson’s ambitions extend beyond individual recognition. He has openly embraced the responsibility of guiding the Knicks toward their first NBA championship since 1973, a pursuit that has defined both his mindset and approach to the game.

That mentality draws inspiration from one of basketball’s most iconic figures. Brunson has frequently referenced the late Kobe Bryant as a model for competitiveness and preparation, adopting elements of Bryant’s “Mamba Mentality” in his own career.

That influence is now visible not only in Brunson’s play, but also in his footwear, as the Knicks star continues to align himself with Bryant’s signature Nike line rather than launching a signature shoe of his own.

1. A Preference Rooted in Legacy

Reports have recently surfaced indicating that Brunson prefers wearing Kobe Bryant’s signature Nike sneakers instead of debuting a personal signature model. It is a choice that reflects admiration rather than branding ambition. Since entering the league, Brunson has consistently favored the Nike Kobe line, valuing its performance profile and symbolic connection to one of the game’s greats. Nike has leaned into that preference by crafting player-exclusive designs tailored specifically for him. Earlier this year, Brunson debuted a Nike Kobe 6 PE inspired by the Statue of Liberty, a direct homage to New York City and his role as one of its basketball standard-bearers. Now, that partnership has expanded again, reinforcing Brunson’s commitment to honoring Bryant’s legacy while carving out his own identity in Madison Square Garden.

2. Inside the Kobe 3 “Arancia” PE

Brunson recently offered a closer look at his latest player-exclusive sneaker: the Nike Kobe 3 PE in an all-orange colorway titled “Arancia,” the Italian word for orange. The name appears to be a subtle nod to Bryant’s upbringing in Italy. The design made its on-court debut during a Knicks game, before Brunson shared detailed images of the sneaker across social media. The vibrant orange palette immediately stood out, blending Knicks colors with a bold, modern aesthetic. The shoe is based on the Nike Kobe 3 Low, a refreshed take on the original model worn by Bryant during his 2008 MVP season. Though often overshadowed by later Kobe releases, the silhouette carries deep historical significance. A metallic blue Nike Swoosh on the heel provides a contrasting accent, adding a final Knicks-themed detail to a sneaker that balances simplicity with meaning.

3. From Exclusive to Potential Release

While the sneaker is currently a player exclusive, it may not remain that way for long. Nike is expected to release the Kobe 3 “Arancia” later this year, potentially aligning with the NBA postseason. An official release date has not yet been announced, but anticipation is already building. Previous Kobe releases have sold out quickly, and limited availability could once again drive demand. For now, Brunson is expected to continue wearing the shoe throughout the regular season, further cementing its association with his rise as the face of the Knicks. As New York pushes toward another playoff run, Brunson’s footwear choice reflects more than style — it underscores a connection to basketball history and a mindset built around championship aspirations.