No matter where you go as a basketball fan (whether it be out in public, to a game, or scrolling through various groups and forums on the internet) you are likely to encounter the Kobe vs. LeBron debate. While both are often mentioned in the G.O.A.T. conversation, in truth, Kobe and LeBron are often left jockeying for the runner-up position, as Michael Jordan unequivocally occupies the top spot in the minds of most.

Still, Kobe and LeBron competed fiercely against one another out on the floor and their matchups were always must-see TV. Just because Kobe is now retired, however, it does not mean that the two basketball greats will no longer be competing against one another.

Kobe Bryant and LeBron James to go toe to toe with new shoes

Kobe Bryant is set to release his new Nike Kobe AD shoes on "Kobe Day" (August 24). The multicolored shoes can be seen above, and fellow NBA star (and new San Antonio Spurs player) DeMar DeRozan recently unveiled them at the Drew League. According to Lakers Nation: "The ‘Kobe Day’ release is one of the more colorful pairs Nike has produced. The grey upper is mixed with navy, crimson laces, a neon sole and hints of the same color on the upper. Additionally, the heel counter is in bronze." The Mamba's latest kicks will be available in select Nike stores and online for a retail price of $140.

LeBron James recently wore his Nike LeBron 16

Not to be outdone by his former on-court rival, LeBron James is also preparing to release a new pair of shoes -- the Nike LeBron 16. There may be a lot of similarities to note between LeBron and Kobe (both mentioned in the G.O.A.T. conversation, both playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, and both having their shoes released by Nike) but those similarities end when you compare their latest shoes.

While Kobe's shoes are a bit all over the place in terms of color scheme, LeBron's shoes are certainly more traditional as far as overall look is concerned.

USA Today notes that the above color scheme certainly has a Cleveland Cavalier-esque tinge to it, however, perhaps there may be a purple and gold edition to come. According to Sneaker News, the Nike LeBron 16 shoes will be released on September 20, 2018, though no price point was listed.

Who do you think has the better shoe, LeBron James or Kobe Bryant? Expect to see King James in his new shoes with his new team (the Los Angeles Lakers) when the 2018-2019 NBA season gets underway. Stay tuned.
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