Paul George Ditches His Shoes for Kobes

NBA All-Star Paul George played in Nike Kobe shoes during a Los Angeles Clippers game.
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There is never a dull moment in the NBA. Whether it is spectacular highlights or stunning sneakers, fans always have a reason for excitement. Last night, Paul George had both during a Los Angeles Clippers victory.

George has a successful signature sneaker line with Nike. His latest model, the Nike PG 6, is popular among players and fans. However, George chose to hoop in shoes from Kobe Bryant's signature line last night.

Paul George

Clippers guard Paul George dribbles the ball.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George dribbles the ball up the court / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

George has been a Nike athlete since he entered the NBA in 2010. However, a signature sneaker line was far from a guarantee for the surprising prospect out of Fresno State.

After emerging as a star with the Indiana Pacers, George's signature sneaker line launched in the spring of 2017. Despite injuries and an unsuccessful pit stop with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the 7x NBA All-Star has cemented himself as a star in the league.

At this point in his career, the 32-year-old can do what he wants. Including switching out his shoes for those of his late mentor. Below is what fans need to know about the Kobe's worn by George.

Nike Kobe 4 Protro 'Draft Day'

View of white, teal, and purple Nike Kobe shoes.
View of the Nike Kobe 4 Protro in the 'Draft Day' colorway / Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

George wore the Nike Kobe 4 Protro in the 'Draft Day' colorway. The shoes were released in February 2019 for $175. Unfortunately for fans, they now have an average resale price of $709, according to StockX.

The Nike Kobe 4 Protro is a retro release of its namesake with technological upgrades. Of course, the 'Draft Day' colorway is part of Kobe sneaker history. The white, teal and purple shoes are a nod to the Charlotte Hornets selecting (and trading) Bryant during the 1996 NBA Draft.

We at FanNation Kicks think it's awesome that George chose to honor Bryant with his footwear last night. It was a display of the self-assuredness that got George to where he is today. Share your thoughts about George's shoes with us on Twitter.

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Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers the sneaker industry for Sports Illustrated's FanNation. Previously, he has reported on the NBA, authored "Kobe Bryant's Sneaker History (1996-2020)," and interviewed some of the biggest names in the sports world. You can email him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.