Rapper and passionate Los Angeles Lakers fan Lil Wayne had a courtside seat behind the baseline for Wednesday’s game at Staples Center. Fresh off going 2-2 on a road trip, the Lakers opened their four-game homestand by hanging on for a 125-118 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.
The Lakers improved to 4-1 at home, 7-5 overall, and sitting in seventh place in the Western Conference entering play Friday night against the San Antonio Spurs.
After Wednesday’s win, Lil Wayne, who was accompanied by his young son, was approached by Jordan Clarkson and D’Angelo Russell. There was nothing unusual with the friendly exchange, as Lakers players will often speak with celebrities prior to making their way to the locker room.
However, the award-winning rapper did provide avid sneakerheads with a glimpse at the Air Jordan Retro 9 ‘Kobe’ that is set to release on Saturday, which was shared via the team’s Twitter account:
? Cause Wayne win, and they lose ?#LakeShow pic.twitter.com/xtYeTXfSCq
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 16, 2016
Bryant wore the iconic Jordan 9 silhouette during the 2002-03 NBA season when he did not have a footwear contract and was at liberty to wear any shoe he desired. It’s believed Bryant paid a hefty fee to buyout his contract with Adidas.
He went on to wear multiple Jordan Brand shoes, And1, Reebok, and even the classic Converse Weapon made famous by Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, before eventually signing with Nike.
The Jordan Retro 9 retails in men’s sizes for $190, and will be available in full-family sizing at Foot Locker, Finish Line, Nike stores, and other retailers.