True legends never die and this “What The” design lands in April 2025 to keep Kobe Bryant alive in the world of basketball and footwear.

Release date: April 4, 2025Price: TBD (expect higher than the original $225)

Nike’s not letting up with the Kobe drops. After the clean “Halo” edition hit for Kobe Bryant’s birthday in 2024, next up is the Kobe 9 “What The” Protro. It’s a throwback that first shook things up back in 2015 with its loud, mismatched vibe and it’s definitely not for quiet hoopers.

If you remember the original “What The” Kobe 9, you’ll know it wasn’t trying to blend in. This time around, Nike’s kept the chaos but gave it a little more structure. You’ve got volt on the medial side, chlorine blue and hot pink on the lateral, and a wild multicolor sockliner that looks like a mashup of Kobe’s creative inspirations. Inside the shoe, you’ll spot words like “influence,” “progress,” and “detail”, which bring to life Kobe’s mindset made wearable. If you’ve followed this line, you will know that Kobe was very deeply involved in the design of this line, right until shortly before this untimely death.

The Kobe 9 was ahead of its time when it dropped. First Nike Basketball shoe with Flyknit? Yup. A high-top built more like a boxing boot than a basketball sneaker? Also yes. The Protro version keeps all that but throws in some upgrades.

Lunarlon foam is out. React foam is in. More bounce, better feel. Nike also reworked the traction with new lines for sharper cuts, and better grip when you’re pushing off that inside foot. To make things even better, the carbon fiber heel counter still holds everything in place.

Serious basketball players have had nothing but glowing reviews to post about this shoe. They cite insane traction, ranking it right up there with the Air Jordan XX8. They also love the grip, so sharp you’ll feel the court under your toes like you’re playing barefoot. The outsole’s super thin, so if you're hooping indoors, you’re good. But outdoor hoopers beware, this rubber will burn out fast if you're not careful.

As for cushioning, it's built on that full-length Lunarlon setup from the Kobe 8. Super smooth ride, low to the ground, and surprisingly bouncy.  

The upper’s stacked with Flyknit and a touch of Fuse backed by carbon fiber at the heel. It’s lightweight and breathable. Nike added the Fuse layers to keep the shape right without making it stiff or clunky.

Ventilation’s decent, but not elite. You’ve got a few perforations around the tongue and toe box, but don’t expect crazy airflow.

For support, the carbon fiber heel counter does its thing, and the shoe grips your foot through the midfoot and heel.

The “What The” Kobe 9 Protro drops in men’s and GS sizing on April 4, 2025—exactly 10 years after its original release. Expect these to go fast and go for more than retail, especially with Kobe collectors watching closely.

More colorways are coming, so keep your eye on SNKRS. Columbus, Ohio fam, if you’re shopping for men’s sneakers or athletic wear, you know Sole Stop has your back, visit it us in store to get your hands on the hottest and rarest kicks.