Kobe Bryant's contract with Nike has expired, and his estate could be launching a venture all its own.
Intellectual property attorney Josh Gerben‘s analysis shows 13 separate trademarks have been filed by the estate since May of 2020. Gerben suggests Bryant's widow, Vanessa, might be preparing for her own launch:
“The filings would suggest Vanessa [Bryant] is building an IP portfolio for a new brand launch,” Gerben told CNBC.
Some of those trademarks include Play Gigi’s Way, Mamba and Mambacita, Baby Mambas, and Mamba League, per CNBC. “Gigi” was the nickname for Bryant's daughter, Gianna, who–along with Kobe and seven others–died in a helicopter crash outside Calabasas in January of 2020.
Gerben said the trademarks were filed under “intent to use,” with the possibility of new clothing lines and footwear could spawn from said trademarks:
“Vanessa — or the estate — is going through and relatively methodically trying to protect the brand around Kobe and his daughter,” Gerben said, via CNBC.
The past filing's speaking to Gerben's above point. Kobe Bryant's estate reportedly filed to trademark “Mamba” and “Mambacita” last month.
Regardless, Vanessa and Co. seem eager to branch out with the long and fruitful Nike partnership coming to an end.
Vanessa has said she wants to ensure fans will be able to wear Kobe Bryant products for years to come. CNBC reported she grew increasingly frustrated with Nike for the company's apparent decision to limit Kobe's products following his death.
It remains to be seen what will eventually come from all the trademarks. But the Bryant estate appears keen to do something more independent.
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