For the second season in a row, FC Barcelona is wearing a Kobe Bryant-inspired uniform. The team debuted the 2026-27 version of the away kit during their 5-0 win against Elche CF on Sunday. Sunday also would have been the Los Angeles Lakers legend's 48th birthday.
Bryant was a big fan of Barcelona, and he credited superstar Ronaldinho for making him a fan of the club. Bryant even appeared on the cover of ESPN the Magazine in February 2009 wearing a full Barcelona kit. This year's Bryant-inspired uniforms have multiple details dedicated to the five-time NBA champion and his career.
"The 2026–27 kit channels Kobe’s Mamba Mentality through details designed to be seen and felt, giving athletes confidence backed by proof. A black mamba texture nods to Kobe’s relentless work ethic, while a Field Purple base carries forward the color he made iconic. Gold accents are rooted in a never-ending quest for championships, and an iridescent crest serves as a reminder of the attention to detail required to win at the highest level.
"One of Kobe’s most enduring messages is inscribed at the inner collar as a fitting call to athletes who don’t see fear as an option and understand glory is earned by putting in the work: 'Leave the game better than you found it,'" Nike wrote on their website.
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