USC Trojans to Sport Kobe Bryant-Inspired Cleats in Historic Rivalry Game

The USC Trojans football team is set to debut specially designed cleats inspired by NBA legend Kobe Bryant during their upcoming game against the UCLA Bruins. Announced on Tuesday, the team’s new footwear is a nod to Bryant‘s iconic Kobe 6 Grinch sneakers, famously worn during the Los Angeles Lakers‘ Christmas Day game in 2010.

The customized Nike Vapor Edge Kobe 6 «USC» cleats feature an all-black design with a cardinal and gold Nike swoosh, complemented by Bryant’s gold logo on the tongues and his signature on the heels. Describing the cleats, USC’s official social media account shared, «Introducing the Nike Kobe 6 ‘USC’ cleat! Modeled after the pair Kobe Bryant debuted on Christmas Day 2010 and exclusively customized for the USC Trojans.»

This development marks the Trojans’ integration into what is known as the «Mamba Programs»—a select group of NCAA teams associated with Kobe Bryant’s legacy. The team will sport these cleats during the 94th annual Crosstown Rivalry game against UCLA, a game renowned for its fierce rivalry not just in football, but as a competition between sportswear giants.

UCLA’s association with Jordan Brand contrasts with USC’s close ties to Nike and the Bryant family. The Bruins, as a Jordan-sponsored school, proudly display the Jumpman logo on their uniforms. Meanwhile, USC’s fresh cleats reflect the «Mamba Mentality» that Bryant embodied, characterized by a snakeskin-inspired upper with contrasting garnet and gold highlights.

The anticipation for these football cleats has been building, with prior hints surfaced via social media. Trojan cornerback Prophet Brown previously shared images of the footwear on Instagram, igniting excitement among fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.

The annual Crosstown Rivalry, hosted alternately in Pasadena and South Central Los Angeles, continues to capture the imagination of college football fans nationwide. Whether it’s the vibrant game atmosphere, the iconic stadiums, or the tradition of both teams wearing home uniforms, the game remains a defining event of the college football season.

Fans eager to witness the Kobe-inspired cleats in action can watch the game on Saturday, November 23, at 10:30 p.m. EST. The dedicated footwear enthusiasts can stay updated through platforms like Sports Illustrated‘s «Kicks On SI» for comprehensive coverage of college football’s latest sneaker trends.