Kobe Bryant

In 1996, Kobe Bryant entered the NBA straight out of high school and signed a six-year contract with adidas. During that period, Bryant participated in four All-Star Games, won three NBA titles, won the 1997 Slam Dunk competition, and debuted a trademark sneaker line with the Three Stripes. After signing with Nike in 2003, Kobe helped the company define their basketball programme for the post-Michael Jordan era by bringing back the Huarache franchise, introducing the Hyperdunk, and creating a signature line. The Black Mamba concluded his career in 2016 as one of the most decorated players of the era, having won two more championships and his only MVP award with Nike. His legacy endures to this day through his renowned footwear line.