DeMar DeRozan’s love for Kobe Bryant and the late-HOFer’s signature shoe is well-documented.
Not only is the Chicago Bulls’ All-Star known for having one of the largest shoe collections in the NBA, but he also recently inked a fresh deal with Nike to continue sporting Bryant’s sneakers on game days. BullsTV recently spoke with DeRozan and head athletic trainer Steve Pankow about the iconic footwear on the latest episode of All-Access, and there is no question that DeRozan is right in calling it an “obsession.”
According to Pankow, the Bulls could have close to 100 pairs of DeRozan’s Kobes at the United Center right now ready to lace up.
“He’s got so many shoes. It’s unlike any player I have ever seen,” Pankow said. “I think it’s well-documented that he has probably one of the largest shoe collections in the league and then especially Kobe’s. In the building right now, we probably have 85 to 100 pairs of Kobe’s for him. And that’s not counting what he has at home.”
Uh, that’s a sh*t ton of shoes!
Before you think this is normal for your average NBA player, let me share that Pankow said Coby White wears the same shoes until they bust and Zach LaVine allows the trainer to pick his pair before each game. In other words, few are as in love with what goes on their feet as DeRozan.
The episode goes on to show plenty of DeRozan’s past looks. He also shares that he can’t even count the number of total pairs he owns, as he’s got 15-20 duplicates of certain Kobes. Overall, it’s a pretty great look at one of DeRozan’s favorite hobbies, and I recommend you give it a watch if you haven’t already.
You can catch the full episode of All-Access here or below: