Kobe wasn't liked that much, when he played. A lot of people, media, players hated on him until the farewell tour. That's when people got to see who Kobe was as a person more so than what others read about him. His image evolved into girl dad, he mentored players, became a business mogul, did charity work and created a foundation, became more extroverted/social. Even Nike didn't care for him much, he was underpaid compared to his "peers." Meanwhile, they're arguing with 5 year olds, have burner accounts....... You're looking at the perfect storm with his tragic passing, a gap in releases due to the contract ending, limited supply, immense demand and popularity, and Nike is pulling all the strings angering fans that want a pair. Unfortunately, the few and most vocal are blaming the wrong person instead.
