Nike’s new Colin Kaepernick-inspired all-black jersey, in commemoration of his peaceful protest kneeling four years ago, managed to sold out in less than a minute.
Nike released on Thursday an all-black jersey commemorating Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling four years ago. The stance, which the former quarterback of the 49ers did during a national anthem, served as a protest on systemic racism. The “triple black” jersey sold out in under a minute, despite Kaepernick not playing for NFL in years.
Sold-Out Jersey
The monochromatic black jersey, which marks Kaepernick’s protest against social injustice, went on sale last week. The limited-edition jersey shirt had a huge number 7 on the back, with a “Kaepernick” atop. Additionally, the collar part on the jersey’s front featured a graphic with both K and 7.
Moreover, Nike priced the Icon Jersey 2.0 at $150. Moments later, the jersey became sold out under a minute, per CNN.
However, a similar phenomenon also happened to previous Kaepernick merchandise. The first iteration of his jersey from 2019 also reportedly sold out in about ten hours.
Meanwhile, Fox News reported that the Kaepernick-themed jersey went for resale at eBay. The new price actually reached $425 and up, Fox News said.
#7 + Nike
On Thursday, the former player for San Francisco 49ers Kaepernick recalled on Instagram his memorable protest years ago. He wrote: “Four years ago, I took a knee to protest against systemic racism and social injustice. It was that day that the number on my jersey would come to represent something greater than football, something greater than me.”
Meanwhile, the sports-apparel company acknowledged Kaepernick’s “continuous commitment.”
Nike stated: “The number 7 jersey has become an iconic symbol for progress and change.”
Nike also said that the “Triple Black jersey” pays homage to the athlete’s effort of “seeking what’s true.”
Kaepernick and NFL
According to People, Kaepernick last represented an NFL team in 2016 for the 49ers. However, the athlete had not played in other teams since his peaceful protest, which involved a lawsuit accusing the football organization of conspiring.
It even came to a point that the NFL said it would fine players who would kneel during the national anthem prior to a match.
CNN also reported that in August, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned he should have listened to Kaepernick.