Paige Bueckers Impresses with Kobe Sneaker Tribute at Dallas Wings Debut
Dallas Wings
Paige Bueckers‘ highly anticipated debut at the Dallas Wings’ introduction festivities was not just about her on-court reputation. The first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft arrived in style, carrying a pair of Kobe 5 ‘X-Ray’ sneakers. A move that immediately resonated with Kobe Bryant fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
Kobe 5 “X-Ray”: A Sneaker Steeped in Legacy
The Kobe 5 Protro X-Ray is more than just a pair of shoes. It is a tribute to the late Kobe Bryant’s enduring legacy. On October 17, 2024, this special edition of the iconic t-shirt is inspired by the sneaker Kobe wore in 2010 to celebrate his fifth NBA championship. The shirt, part of his “Broken Not Beaten” campaign, famously featured an X-ray image of his hand adorned with championship rings, symbolizing resilience and his sacrifices.
The “X-Ray” sneaker translates this theme to its design:
Colorway: Deep Royal Blue, Baltic Blue, and Glacier Blue, perfectly matching the Dallas Wings’ team colors.
Upper: Features printed artwork of foot bones, creating a striking X-ray effect.
Branding: Kobe’s sheath logo appears on the tongue and heel.
Outsole: Glow-in-the-dark translucent rubber for a unique, performance-driven touch.
Release and Price: Released on October 17, 2024, with a retail price of $190, but current resale prices start at $164, according to StockX.
The Kobe 5 ‘X-Ray’ is highly praised by sneaker experts for its distinctive edges and unique imagery, which mirror both Kobe’s basketball journey and his philosophy of perseverance.
Bueckers’ Emotional Connection to Kobe and Gigi Bryant
Bueckers’ footwear decision is particularly poignant as she has a deep admiration for Kobe Bryant. As she led UConn to the NCAA women’s championship, she shared an emotional tribute, emphasizing the significance of Kobe and his daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant to her and the Huskies. Room 824, where my mom is staying, is both Kobe’s numbers, Bueckers explained, referring to numbers 8 and 24, which Bryant wore during his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers. “Kobe’s watching over us. Gigi’s watching over us.”
This heartwarming moment occurred as Gigi, a passionate UConn fan, would have been eligible to play for the Huskies this year. Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, acknowledged the moment on Instagram by quoting her daughter’s quote: ‘When you think you can’t, UCONN.’
A New Era for the Dallas Wings
Bueckers is already making her mark in Dallas, both as a basketball talent and as a style icon, as the preseason begins and the regular season starts against the Seattle Storm on May 19. Her arrival in the Kobe 5 ‘X-Ray’ sneakers not only honors her basketball heroes, but also signals her intention to carry their legacy forward as she embarks on her WNBA career. Bueckers’ emotional tribute, her bond with the Bryants, and her bold sneaker choice have set the stage for a memorable rookie season that extends beyond just basketball.
