That is your house indeed; forever @DwyaneWade
pic.twitter.com/EC7h0K4oBZ
— NBA (@NBA) October 28, 2024
Last weekend, Wade and the world witnessed the unveiling of the bronze figure outside the Kaseya Center in Miami. Cameras captured Wade and his son, Zaire, locking eyes and attempting to hold in their laughter over the now-viral statue. When the former Miami Heat star took the podium, he playfully questioned, “Who is that guy?” which only fueled the social media chatter.
Some questioned why sculptors Omri Amrany and Oscar León made Wade’s face look more like Lawrence Fishburne than the Hall of Famer. However, despite Wade poking fun at his own figure, he shared behind-the-scenes footage of the process, which showed him also assisting in the creative process. Even when speaking with the press, he stood by the monument.
“It don’t need to look like me. It’s the artistic version of a moment that happened that we’re trying to cement,” Wade stated.
While the bust has made for a funny conversation, the honor is still one of the highest that an athlete can receive. Even if they aren’t exactly look-alikes, these designs serve as monuments to the incredible careers of some of the world’s best athletes. Here are some of our favorites.
Ed Reed – NFL (Baltimore Ravens, Houston Texans, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills)
Michael Jordan – NBA (Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards)
The best statue in sports
The Michael Jordan statue (“The Spirit”) is available for public viewing in the United Center atrium!
Monday-Friday: 8 am to 6 pm CT
Weekends: 10 am to 6 pm CT pic.twitter.com/9SKD1FeBFR— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) July 16, 2021
Venus and Serena Williams – Tennis
This is awesome: Venus Williams poses with a statue of her and her sister Serena at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History
#thegist
(c/o @Venuseswilliams) pic.twitter.com/jyGm2SUII4
— The GIST USA (@thegistusa) November 19, 2021
Shaquille O’Neal – NBA ( Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics)
Immortalized. Congrats to Shaq for getting his own statue outside of Staples Center. pic.twitter.com/kVgJGyTTXs
— KicksOnFire (@kicksonfire) March 26, 2017
Kobe Bryant and daughter, Gigi – NBA and Little League (Los Angeles Lakers and Mamba Sports Academy)
The post From Dwyane Wade to Other Greats: A Round-Up of Athlete Statues That Honor Legends—Even if They Don’t Always Look Alike appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>The Lakers officially unveil Kobe Bryant’s second statue honoring Kobe & Gigi
@LADEig pic.twitter.com/pfEQHtIgOC
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) August 2, 2024
After the statue was revealed during the event, Wade examined the monument and questioned, “Who is that guy?”
More permanent than the
under the mat pic.twitter.com/Z6rPHKPNaa
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) October 27, 2024
The sculpture, created by Omri Amrany and Oscar León, who also crafted statues for Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, seemingly sought to honor Wade’s “This is my house” pose from a 2009 game-winning shot. Though the body of the figure may be intact, the face has left many puzzled. The peculiar head on the figure looks nothing like the iconic player, though social media had a field day with guessing who it actually resembles. Some users believed the sculpture was modeled after actor Laurence Fishburne, while others even claimed Samuel L. Jackson was the actual inspiration.
The @DwyaneWade statue looks like this
@NBAonTNT pic.twitter.com/SsG7z0HjOD
— Commanders Declassified Podcast (@DeclassifiedWft) October 28, 2024
D Wade’s statue looks like a young Lawrence Fishburne…Bam has red lint in his hair…and my guy in the back is questioning if he should even be a Heat fan…what a catastrophe lol pic.twitter.com/DdxNjR3hin
— Benny The Jet (@PFflyerMarine89) October 28, 2024
That D Wade statue looks like Lawrence Fishburne pic.twitter.com/mLRDuPqsCe
— Mr. Morale and the Big Belly
(@napnate) October 27, 2024
No matter who or what the memorial favors, the overall consensus is that Wade deserves a do-over of his big moment.
The post Who Is That Guy?: Miami Heat Unveils Dwyane Wade Statue, Leaving Fans and the NBA Legend Puzzled [Video] appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>In 2024, sneaker enthusiasts can look forward to the return of the beloved Kobe 9 colorway. According to footwear insiders such as Sneaker Files and Instagram account @zSneakerheadz, the fan-favorite “Christmas” Kobe 9 Elite is making its grand reappearance next holiday season. Originally dropped in 2014, this high-top silhouette is more than just a response to Kobe’s Achilles injury, as often believed. The festive red hue and the nine embroidered lines on the heel—representing Bryant’s Achilles sutures—pay homage to his resilience and drive.
While the retro edition remains under wraps, for now, the sneaker community is eagerly awaiting its debut. The original 2014 design left a lasting impression, and sneakerheads are ready for its return. This will be the first Kobe 9 release since the all-grey “Fade to Black” collection in 2016, which commemorated Kobe’s legendary final NBA season.
Nike has yet to make an official announcement, but thanks to early leaks from House of Heat, fans got a sneak peek at the highly anticipated “Christmas” Kobe 9 Protro. Stay tuned for more details and the first official look in the coming months—this holiday season is shaping up to be a big one for Kobe fans and sneaker collectors alike.
The post Cop or Flop? Nike to Revive Iconic “Christmas” Kobe 9 Elite This Holiday Season appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Nike leads the pack with a wave of new drops, including its Devin Booker collaboration. The Nike Book 1 “Sunrise” will make its debut on October 10th for $140. This one-of-a-kind colorway starts with a delicate pink upper, complemented by understated orange touches on the heel, while the gradient outsole shifts seamlessly from pink to orange.
Another sneaker comes from the Jordan Brand and Howard University collaboration. The Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Howard University” colorway showcases the school’s signature navy, red, and white color scheme.
Kobe Bryant’s legacy lives on with his adored basketball shoe, the Kobe 5 Protro “X-Ray.” On October 31st, fans will have an opportunity to grab the new shoe, which will retail for $190 in a blue colorway.
Whether you’re into retro classics or modern designs, October’s sneaker lineup has something for everyone, making it the perfect time to update your collection.
Air Jordan 4 WMNS “Orchid” – October 26th (Price unknown)
Adidas Harden Vol 8 Miami Nights – October 1st ($160)
Adidas Harden Vol 8 Miami Nights
𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝘆: Pulse Magenta/Core Black-Lucid Cyan
𝗦𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗱𝗲: JQ2393
𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: October 1, 2024The Adidas Harden Vol 8 Miami Nights is a highly anticipate…https://t.co/9bY59RlcyF pic.twitter.com/ndxUR1Zr3P
— KicksOnFire (@kicksonfire) September 26, 2024
Hello Kitty x Adidas Adistar Cushion – October 1st ($125)
Nike KD 4 Aunt Pearl 2024 – October 3rd ($130)
The post Ballerific Fashion: These October Sneaker Releases Are Perfect for Your Collection appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
The series will highlight the game ball from the Bulls’ title-clinching victory. According to Pippen, the ball symbolizes the beginning of the Bulls’ dynasty and the end of the Los Angeles Lakers’ era, famously known as “Showtime” in the ’80s.
“We’re working on a documentary that highlights this basketball because we believe it holds a lot of untold stories,” Pippen explained to TMZ Sports.
The 1991 NBA Finals showcased the Lakers, led by the NBA’s biggest star at the time, Magic Johnson, as they faced the Bulls, spearheaded by a young Michael Jordan and Pippen himself. After losing Game 1, the Bulls returned with a vengeance, winning four straight games, effectively closing the door on the Lakers’ dominance and marking the rise of Chicago’s historic reign. The Lakers wouldn’t claim another title until a decade later, with Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, while the Bulls went on to win six NBA championships.
Pippen is collaborating with Deon Taylor of Hidden Empire Film Group to bring this story to life. The documentary will explore the entire season and offer a deeper glimpse into what basketball was like in the early 1990s, along with Chicago’s journey to securing its first title.
In addition to the film, Pippen will turn the game ball into a digital token, allowing fans to own a piece of sports history.
“I’ve kept this ball alongside my championship rings and replica trophies. It holds deep meaning for me, and now, I want to share its value with the community,” Pippen said.
The post Scottie Pippen to Create Documentary About the ’91 NBA Finals Game Ball: “It Holds Deep Meaning for Me” appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Known for their perfectionist tendencies, it’s no surprise that Virgo season has given us the icon known as Beyoncé, whose musical career is the embodiment of perfection. After 32 Grammys and countless other accolades, her work speaks to this.
Thankfully for us, she isn’t the only entertainer born in this vibrant season. Rapper Ludacris, whose birthday is September 11th, hilariously broke down the difference between Virgos born in the separate months. According to Luda, August Virgos “never shut the f**k up,” while September Virgos are “relatively quiet in a new setting.”
As we embrace Virgo season, it’s a perfect moment to celebrate the brilliance of several others who continue to inspire us with their relentless pursuit of excellence.
Michael Jackson – born August 29th
August Alsina – born September 3rd
Muni Long – born September 14th
Jennifer Hudson – born September 12th
Idris Elba – born September 6th
Keke Palmer – born August 26th
Kobe Bryant – born August 23rd
Taraji P. Henson – born September 11th
The post Embracing Virgo Season & The Iconic Stars It Gave Us appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
Born August 23rd, 1978, Bryant has long been hailed as one of the NBA players of all time. Drafted straight out of Lower Merion High School in 1996, Bryant landed on the Los Angeles Lakers, where he spent his entire 20-year career. The icon became widely recognized for his relentless work ethic, once famously stating, “I have nothing in common with lazy people.”
Known for his “Mamba Mentality,” Bryant earned numerous accolades, including five NBA championships, two NBA Finals MVP awards, and an NBA Most Valuable Player honor in 2008. Additionally, Bryant was an 18-time NBA All-Star, securing a spot on the All-NBA First Team an impressive 11 times.
Off the court, Bryant was dedicated to youth sports. He helped mold the basketball skills of his late daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant. Their shared love of basketball motivated the star player to launch his Mamba Sports Academy in 2018. The training facility continues to help rising athletes achieve their goals in Kobe’s and Gigi’s honor.
Before his untimely passing on January 26th, 2020, which also claimed the life of Gigi, Bryant also dived into filmmaking. His film, “Dear Basketball,” won an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 2018. The nearly five-and-a-half-minute flick brings to life a touching poem that the Los Angeles Laker penned to announce Bryant’s retirement in November 2015.
Despite his life being tragically cut short, Bryant’s legacy lives on through his family, longtime Nike deal, and newly unveiled statues at the Crypto Arena in Los Angeles.
The post Kobe Bryant Would Have Turned 46 Today & His Legacy Continues To Touch Us All appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>Whether you’re craving a sweet slam dunk or a sour alley-oop, Shaq’s larger-than-life personality is now available in gummy form.
In an exclusive interview with Baller Alert, Shaq discussed his latest endeavor, revealing its inspiration and offering insights into his life after basketball.
Shaq’s idea for gummies stems from his childhood. Growing up near a Gummy Bear factory in Germany, he loved the chewy treats. When Hershey approached him with the idea of a collaboration, he was excited and said, “Holy Shaqalicious!”
“I’ve been helping create flavors, and so far, the business is doing well,” he said.
Shaq-a-licious XL Gummies, O’Neal invites fans and consumers to experience his latest venture—a product that embodies his larger-than-life persona in a uniquely tangible and flavorful form.
Known for his sense of humor, Shaq recounted one of his most memorable pranks involving fellow celebrity Kevin Hart. During the filming of “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Shaq impersonated a police officer, pulled Hart over, lifted him off the ground, and playfully threatened to take him to jail. The infamous clip has gone viral on social media multiple times.
When asked about his ideal basketball lineup, O’Neal quickly named his dream team. His selection included Kobe Bryant and Penny Hardaway as guards, himself at center, Karl Malone as power forward, and Dennis Scott as small forward/shooter. This team shows how much Shaq respects his old teammates and rivals.
When the topic shifted to Kobe Bryant, Shaq opened up about his old teammate and friend. Four years after Bryant’s tragic passing, Shaq shared the difficulty coping with the loss. He mentioned staying in touch with Bryant’s family, especially following the recent passing of Kobe’s father.
Shaq used this moment to give some life advice saying, “Let go of small arguments and stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Send them a text, reconnect,” Shaq said, stressing how important it is to keep relationships strong while we can.
Shaquille O’Neal continues to surprise and inspire, from dominating the basketball court to entering the candy market.
Basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal, known for his skills on the court and his larger-than-life personality off it, has embarked on a new and surprising business venture: candy!
Whether you’re craving a sweet slam dunk or a sour alley-oop, Shaq’s larger-than-life personality is now available in gummy form.
In an exclusive interview with Baller Alert, Shaq discussed his latest endeavor, revealing its inspiration and offering insights into his life after basketball.
Shaq’s idea for gummies stems from his childhood. Growing up near a Gummy Bear factory in Germany, he loved the chewy treats. When Hershey approached him with the idea of a collaboration, he was excited and said, “Holy Shaqalicious!”
“I’ve been helping create flavors, and so far, the business is doing well,” he said.
With the launch of Shaq-a-licious XL Gummies, O’Neal invites fans and consumers to experience his latest venture—a product that embodies his larger-than-life persona in a uniquely tangible and flavorful form.
Known for his sense of humor, Shaq recounted one of his most memorable pranks involving fellow celebrity Kevin Hart. During the filming of “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Shaq impersonated a police officer, pulled Hart over, lifted him off the ground, and playfully threatened to take him to jail. The infamous clip has gone viral on social media multiple times.
When asked about his ideal basketball lineup, O’Neal quickly named his dream team. His selection included Kobe Bryant and Penny Hardaway as guards, himself at center, Karl Malone as power forward, and Dennis Scott as small forward/shooter. This team shows how much Shaq respects his old teammates and rivals.
When the topic shifted to Kobe Bryant, Shaq opened up about his old teammate and friend. Four years after Bryant’s tragic passing, Shaq shared the difficulty coping with the loss. He mentioned staying in touch with Bryant’s family, especially following the recent passing of Kobe’s father.
Shaq used this moment to give some life advice saying, “Let go of small arguments and stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Send them a text, reconnect,” Shaq said, stressing how important it is to keep relationships strong while we can.
Shaquille O’Neal continues to surprise and inspire, from dominating the basketball court to entering the candy market.
Basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal, known for his skills on the court and his larger-than-life personality off it, has embarked on a new and surprising business venture: candy!
Whether you’re craving a sweet slam dunk or a sour alley-oop, Shaq’s larger-than-life personality is now available in gummy form.
In an exclusive interview with Baller Alert, Shaq discussed his latest endeavor, revealing its inspiration and offering insights into his life after basketball.
Shaq’s idea for gummies stems from his childhood. Growing up near a Gummy Bear factory in Germany, he loved the chewy treats. When Hershey approached him with the idea of a collaboration, he was excited and said, “Holy Shaqalicious!”
“I’ve been helping create flavors, and so far, the business is doing well,” he said.
With the launch of Shaq-a-licious XL Gummies, O’Neal invites fans and consumers to experience his latest venture—a product that embodies his larger-than-life persona in a uniquely tangible and flavorful form.
Known for his sense of humor, Shaq recounted one of his most memorable pranks involving fellow celebrity Kevin Hart. During the filming of “Real Husbands of Hollywood,” Shaq impersonated a police officer, pulled Hart over, lifted him off the ground, and playfully threatened to take him to jail. The infamous clip has gone viral on social media multiple times.
When asked about his ideal basketball lineup, O’Neal quickly named his dream team. His selection included Kobe Bryant and Penny Hardaway as guards, himself at center, Karl Malone as power forward, and Dennis Scott as small forward/shooter. This team shows how much Shaq respects his old teammates and rivals.
When the topic shifted to Kobe Bryant, Shaq opened up about his old teammate and friend. Four years after Bryant’s tragic passing, Shaq shared the difficulty coping with the loss. He mentioned staying in touch with Bryant’s family, especially following the recent passing of Kobe’s father.
Shaq used this moment to give some life advice saying, “Let go of small arguments and stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Send them a text, reconnect,” Shaq said, stressing how important it is to keep relationships strong while we can.
Shaquille O’Neal continues to surprise and inspire, from dominating the basketball court to entering the candy market.
The post EXCLUSIVE: Shaq Discusses New Shaq-a-licious Gummies, Kobe Bryant, and More [Video] appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>For many years, shoe releases timed to coincide with the Olympics have been highly sought after by sneakerheads and athletes across the globe. These trainers often use the colors seen in the logos of the Games and include elements that honor the event’s illustrious history. From improved support for active use to modern styles ideal for daily wear, these footwear staples embody the values of excellence and teamwork of the competition series. In addition to being fly footwear, sneakers adorned with this year’s Paris inspiration serve as collectible mementos honoring the world event and its influence on pop culture and sports.
Thankfully, the 2024 Olympics have influenced four kicks, perfect for those who plan on going outside to watch the Games this summer.
Paris Olympics Air Jordan 6
The Paris Olympics Air Jordan 6 is scheduled to debut on August 7th. The grey color scheme is complimented with gold accents on the midsole and lace locks.
“Paris Olympics” Air Jordan 6 releasing August 7, 2024.
pic.twitter.com/o3HiwuEI90
— zSneakerHeadz (@zSneakerHeadz) April 2, 2024
Gold Medal Nike Kobe 4
The Gold Medal Nike Kobe 4 were first introduced in 2009 as a nod to NBA icon Kobe Bryant and Team USA bringing home the gold medal during the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games. The gold and white sneakers include a navy blue Nike check trimmed in red. They are expected to hit the market in the fall.
Olympic Air Jordan 6
The Olympic Air Jordan 6 are making their return after last being seen in 2012. The Team USA-inspired shoes were first unveiled during the 2000 Summer Olympics. Fans can get their hands on this classic white, red and navy colorway on August 3rd.
The post Paris 2024 Olympics Have Inspired Three Sneakers That Are Sure To Become Collectors Items appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>
According to a Monday press release, Kobe’s locker at the Staples Center is now placed on the auction block by Sotheby’s and is expected to go for $1 million to $1.5 million. The auction house explained that the locker was removed in 2018 during renovations. However, someone working on the project decided to keep Kobe’s locker intact. A private collector later obtained the locker but is now up for sale as part of the ALTITUDE | CAPSULE COLLECTION.
Kobe Bryant’s historic Staples Center locker from 2003-2016 is coming to auction for an estimated $1-$1.5M
The locker was discovered during renovations of the Staples Center in 2018 by a vigilant maintenance worker who saved it from disposal
pic.twitter.com/W9bg9O2TLe
— Nice Kicks (@nicekicks) July 22, 2024
“Kobe Bryant’s locker at the Staples Center is more than just a piece of memorabilia; it’s a sacred relic of his unparalleled journey,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s Head of Modern Collectibles. “This locker was Kobe’s sanctuary amidst triumphs and challenges, a witness to the highs and lows of a storied career. Every achievement and hardship left its mark within these walls.”
Nevertheless, Sotheby’s sports-themed auction opened up for bidding on Monday and will run until August 2nd. If you want to check out the locker before placing your bid, the memorabilia will be available in person from July 26th to July 30th at Sotheby’s York Avenue galleries in New York City. Other exciting items that are included in the online auction are Michael Jordan’s shorts from his last game, a Diego Maradona jersey signed from the World Cup semifinal, Rafael Nadal tennis rackets from the 2006 French Open and Wimbledon championships, and Florence Griffith Joyner’s spikes from the 1988 Olympic Games.
The post That’s Baller: Kobe Bryant’s Staple Center Locker Expected To Sell For $1 Million At Online Auction appeared first on Baller Alert.]]>