Nike Steals Christmas With Limited Kobe 6 'Reverse Grinch' Drop

Originally posted on Sneakers on SI | By Pat Benson | Last updated Dec 15, 2023 12:35 PM ET

Sixteen Christmas Day games in the NBA are remembered for the heroic performances of Kobe Bryant . The Los Angeles Lakers legend often stole joy from his opponents around the holidays, which inspired the iconic 'Grinch' and 'Reverse Grinch' colorways of Bryant's signature sneakers.

Unfortunately, Nike is the one stealing happiness from Bryant's loyal fans this holiday season. Earlier this morning, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro 'Reverse Grinch' was released, and many fans were once again unable to purchase the highly sought-after sneakers.

According to the social media account @SnkrsStock, only 32,573 units were released for today's drop on the Nike SNKRS app. This does not include the limited-release "shock drop" on December 5 that took place on the Nike SNKRS app for eligible customers or any units that went to retailers.

FanNation Kicks cannot confirm these numbers, but if they are accurate, it is less than the 47,249 pairs of the Nike Kobe 8 Protro 'Halo' released in August. Additionally, less than the 40,024 pairs of Nike Kobe 4 Protro 'Mambacita' were released in limited quantities in May.

In August, Vanessa Bryant blamed Nike for the limited release of 'Halo' release, saying the brand wanted the sneakers to be "limited and collectible." Earlier this month, she said she "was informed the Reverse drop is 3x the units it's ever been before."

There is no sugarcoating it; today was yet another disappointing day for the Nike Kobe sneaker line. During Bryant's heyday, his sneakers were easily accessible and worn by athletes and fans all over the world. Now, they are more likely to be seeded to celebrities than worn on a public basketball court.

This article first appeared on Sneakers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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