Rory McIlroy honored Kobe Bryant with some of his apparel during the opening round of the Masters on Thursday.
McIlroy, who is searching for his first career green jacket to complete the career grand slam, wore white, black and gold shoes with the date “4/13” inscribed on them. The date represents when Kobe will play the final game of his career.
McIlroy's shoes
Marked with "4/13" as a tribute to @KobeBryant who will play his final @NBA game on that date. pic.twitter.com/xwaZEDGtGv
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) April 7, 2016
Nike said in a news release that McIlroy’s shoes are a “metaphoric nod to Bryant’s golden career fading to black on April 13.” Of course, both McIlroy and Kobe are endorsed by Nike.
McIlroy seems to pay attention to the NBA. You might remember when he defended LeBron James against critics several years ago. While Nike undoubtedly sent McIlroy the gear and asked him to wear it, he must be a fan of Kobe to have agreed.
