LSU Tigers Show Off Player-Exclusive Kobe Sneakers

The LSU Tigers are the first NCAA basketball team to debut Kobe Bryant's new Nike sneakers.

Women's college basketball is must-see television this season. After cutting down the nets last spring, the LSU Tigers are back and better than ever. Head coach Kim Mulkey just won her 700th game, Angel Reese has returned to action, and Hailey Van Lith has provided a huge spark after transferring to Baton Rouge.

If that was not enough, Nike designated LSU as one of six "Mamba Programs." The honor pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and entails player-exclusive sneakers for student-athletes. Before Thursday night's win over the Virginia Tech Hokies, LSU's social media accounts shared a sneaker peek of the Nike Kobe 8 that would later be debuted on the hardwood.

In August, Nike re-released Bryant's eighth signature sneaker with technological upgrades. The Nike Kobe 8 Protro will be released in several styles over the next year, but LSU's purple and white colorway is only going to the men's and women's basketball teams.

Other Mamba Programs include the Kentucky Wildcats, UConn Huskies, Oregon Ducks, USC Trojans, and Duke Blue Devils. Sneakerheads can expect all of the squads to debut the Nike Kobe 8 Protro in player-exclusive colorways as well as other exciting footwear and apparel throughout the season.

LSU's lady hoopers are changing the landscape of the NCAA and the sport through sheer star power and talent. Add in some sneaker heat, and their games are mandatory viewing. Follow FanNationKicks.com for all your sneaker news from the sports world.

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