Marketing Shaq vs Kobe, Round 2

Continuing the marketing challenge of Shaq and Kobe, let’s look at my favorite, shoes, aka kicks. Shaq versus Kobe, Round 2. Sorry, but no contest in this one.

Shaq’s affordable $40 Dunkman shoe available only at Payless Shoes sends out a positive message. But it’s uuuuugggggllllyyyy. No matter how dominating Shaq is, shoeheads would shake their heads at the Dunkmans. I don’t even think a raving review from Professor K would help sell this shoe.

Nike is gearing up Kobe’s marketing campaign. With Kobe’s Colorado memories slowing ebbing away, Nike is beginning to push Kobe as one of its signature players. Previously, Kobe’s worn the Nike Air Huarache 2K4 and 2K5, now he has his own shoe, the Zoom Kobe I, coming out in Feb 2006. You may have seen a preview of the Kobe I during the Heat vs. Lakers Christmas Day match-up. Kinda funky but still better than the Dunkmans.

Round 2 goes to Kobe. (Nike wins out either way since they directly and indirectly endorse both shoes.)

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