Matt Varga As we press ever closer to the Opening Ceremony, the international slate of basketball is almost underway. Which means sneaker brands far and wide are unveiling their foremost basketball shoes in ceremonial colorways. One of Kobe Bryant’s Three Stripes signatures is the latest to get in on the action, carrying the Trecolore flag in the Mini adidas Crazy 8 “French Basketball” edition.
Despite the zany design language of the model, this colorway keeps things to a relatively standard layout. France’s national colors appear in order on the synthetic stripes that weave side-to-side across the profile, while an off-white sole and black suede up top maintain a refined atmosphere. Considering the semi-standard palette, the centerpiece is the tongue emblem, stamping the “French Basketball” concept front-and-center, working the Eiffel Tower into a decidedly modern graphic.
As for Bryant’s specific ties to France, his most publicized basketball foray there was a 1998 off-season workout series with peer & eventual rival Tracy McGrady. His international career never afforded him the opportunity to officially lace ’em up in Paris. Regardless of how often he touched down in the City of Light, his influence is still absolutely felt indirectly, his unwavering passion gracing Team USA on 3 occasions and undoubtedly rubbing off of many of the US athletes set to take to the hardwood this summer.
The Mini adidas Crazy 8 “French Basketball” drops on August 1st via select stockists, retailing for $160. A wider/stateside Mini adidas drop is still pending. For now, enjoy detailed images below via BTSN.
WHERE TO BUY
adidas Crazy 8
Europe 08/01/2024 Thursday
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| BSTN | Standard | Check Site |
US 2024
| Retailer | Release type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| adidas US | Standard | Check Site |
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- adidas Crazy 8 BTSN
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- adidas Crazy 8 BTSN
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- adidas Crazy 8 BTSN
