Sneaker News Vanessa Bryant just unleashed a full slate of Kobe launches for the new season, and there’s some strong picks to keep and eye on over the next three months. Summer (aka April, May, and June) holds some important dates for the Bryant family; April 13th is Mamba Day, the date that signifies Kobe’s final NBA game, while May 1st remembers the birthday of daughter Gigi. Those two dates alone will keep Kobe fans excited about product while continuing the legacy of the fallen icon. We’ll run down the list of drops based on order of release.
Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Game Royal”
First up is the Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Game Royal” aka the Kobe 6 “Dodgers”. Designed with the defending MLB champs and the city of LA in mind, this special edition will launch on SNKRS and select retailers on April 13th. These first dropped exclusively at UNDEFEATED earlier in March.
Nike “What The” Kobe 8 Protro
Also expected to launch on April 13th is the first-ever re-release of the “What The” Kobe 8. Originally hitting stores in limited quantity back in 2013, the Kobe 8 “What That” is regarded by many as one of the best Kobe shoes to ever release.
Nike Kobe 9 EM “Mambacita”
In celebrating the 19th birthday of Gigi Bryant, Nike presented the Kobe 9 EM “Mambacita”, the first-ever release of the Kobe 9 EM Protro. It features a black/light grey gradient upper, an elegant marbled pattern on the outsole, golden touches on the Swoosh and Kobe logo, and Gigi’s name on the heel. Expect a release on May 1st for $180.
Nike “What The” Kobe 9 Elite Protro
Next up down the Summer 2025 Kobe pipeline is the return of the “What The” Kobe 9 Elite Protro. First dropping in early 2015, this high-top Kobe was one of the last remaining Kobe 9 drops before graduating up to the Kobe 10. Expect these on SNKRS and select Nike Basketball retailers on April 13th.
Nike Kobe 4 Protro “CHBL”
Expected to launch in Summer 2025 is the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “CHBL”; this special colorway is designed after the Chinese High School Basketball League and will possibly be exclusive to the China region. Stay tuned for release details.
Kobe Bryant x Nike Air Force 1 Low
Rounding out this Kobe Summer preview is an Air Force 1 Low; this light blue/light yellow colorway is said to be inspired by the Minneapolis era of the Lakers franchise. This color combo has often been seen throughout the Nike Kobe signature line in the past. A release date is not confirmed, but is expected sometime this Summer season.
