In an industry where the future is as important as a nod to the past, Adidas Basketball is bringing back a piece of hoops history this month with the reissue of Kobe Bryant's second signature shoe, now known as the Crazy 98.
Originally launched as the KB8 II and later rebranded as the Crazy 2, this iconic model played a pivotal role in Adidas's late '90s advertising campaigns and firmly established Kobe Bryant as a sneaker world luminary.
The Crazy 98's return is a testament to Kobe's lasting influence on basketball culture and Adidas's commitment to celebrating its heritage while pushing forward. The KB8 II's initial release captured the imagination of sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans, offering innovative design and performance features that set it apart. In 2014, adidas reinvigorated the model under the name Crazy 2, releasing it in original colorways and new variations to commemorate special dates and holidays, demonstrating the brand's ability to bridge eras and appeal to old and new fans.
Now rebranded as the Crazy 98, adidas aims to harness the original energy of the KB8 II, sparking curiosity about potential updates or redesigns akin to those seen in the Crazy IIINFINITY. This move underscores Adidas's broader strategy within its basketball category, balancing cutting-edge performance sneakers with the reissue of beloved classics.
Set for release on Adidas.com on April 13th, 2024, with a retail price of $150, the Adidas Crazy 98 presents an exciting opportunity for sneaker collectors and Kobe fans to reconnect with a key chapter in the history of basketball footwear.
