The NBA released the figures for the top jersey sales around the world, and Chris Sheridan has the totals. Kobe Bryant tops the list, as always, with the No. 1 slot in Europe, Latin America and China — a truly global appeal. Kevin Durant came in No. 10 overall and should continue to rise with more exposure. Sheridan writes:
The list was based on sales at adidas locations outside the United States during the 2011-12 season. Following Bryant were Derrick Rose, LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade, Rajon Rondo, Carmelo Anthony, Blake Griffin and Kevin Durant.
Spain native Pau Gasol occupies the 11th spot, followed by by Germany’s Dirk Nowitzki, Amar’e Stoudemire, France’s Tony Parker and Spain’s Ricky Rubio, giving international players four of the top 15 sales slots – but none of the top 10.
LeBron and Durant and other figures in the NBA Finals should benefit from the front-and-center spotlight the series brings. Bryant has earned his attention with plenty of rings, and now members of the Thunder and Heat can do the same.