It’s true about Kobe Bryant and any superstar of the game: Show them a soft spot in your game and they’ll attack it relentlessly. Bryant has proved it not only during NBA play, but in the Olympics, as well. According to a story in Monday’s Los Angeles Times from Mark Medina, the Lakers’ star has constantly needled Spanish centerpiece Pau Gasol about the U.S. victory over Spain to win the 2008 Beijing Olympics. I’m guessing it’s in a good natured but seriously, remember when we beat you for gold? kind of way. Gasol can’t even get in a word with a Spanish teammate without Bryant dropping the hint that you know, they lost. Read More »

As part of the festivities surrounding the World Basketball Festival, 21 Mercer is dropping an early release of the Nike Air Force 1 Country Pack today until 7:00 pm. All the shoes (with models for Brazil, France, China, Puerto Rico and the U.S.) come with a special box and tissue paper available exclusively at 21 Mercer. Also, there will be WBF ticket giveaways to the first four purchasers of each country along with limited edition laser customization available throughout the day. Check out the kicks for each country after the jump. Read More »