An open letter to those who have criticized our comments about Kobe Bryant

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On January 26th, father of four, Kobe Bryant, and eight other people (including one of his daughters) were killed when the helicopter they were traveling in crashed. We would hope there’s no one on earth who wouldn’t agree it was a tragic loss for his family, and the families and loved ones of those traveling with him.

Kobe Bryant also happened to be one of the most recognized professional athletes in the world. During his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant won five NBA championships, was an 18-time All-Star, 15-time member of the All-NBA Team, 12-time member of the All-Defensive Team, was named the 2008 NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), and was a two-time NBA Finals MVP winner. You don’t achieve all that without grit, determination, hard work and talent.

Kobe Bryant was an American success story, and we noted his loss on our social media.

Some people who follow our posts thought we should not have called him a “hero.”

We thought we should respond.

Nine Line Apparel was founded by patriots for patriots. We are relentlessly patriotic, and unashamed to be.

We aim to reinvigorate the sense of patriotism and national pride that seems to be disappearing daily from our society. Where politics and dissent divide our country, we hope to inspire unity and brotherhood among all Americans as patriots under our common flag.

Nine Line is also relentless in our support of those who have and continue to serve honorably as members of the military, police, fire department, or any other public service.

We support a multitude of initiatives beyond raising awareness and financially back organizations that help those in need. From first responders to military charities to disaster relief initiatives, Nine Line is committed to the ongoing support of charitable initiatives on behalf of those who have served their country, on both foreign and domestic soil.

At Nine Line, we know that only united can the American people fight injustice and preserve our freedom and independence.

Part of what unites us as Americans is our admiration and appreciation of sporting achievement among our countrymen. It’s what makes the Super Bowl one of the most-watched events every year. It’s practically a national holiday. Basketball isn’t as popular (or profitable) as football, but it is still followed by millions of Americans, who find inspiration in the big men (and women) pounding up and down the court.

Any family who suffers the loss of a loved one experiences tremendous grief and heartache. Families of those killed in the line of duty suffer even more so, because nowadays their loved ones volunteered to be there.

We honor them every day at Nine Line, in everything we produce, promote and do.

But we also felt it was appropriate to make mention of Kobe Bryant’s death. He was a legend in sports. He was a hero to those who admired his athletic abilities and his success.

Americans take pride in our star athletes, musicians, a few political leaders – heck, even an actor or two — because sharing in their accomplishments helps us get over the grind and grief of daily life.

And helps us move on. Let’s do that.

Nine Line is an American Clothing Company with American made Apparel and Accessories- Veteran Owned and Operated