John Kim Nike has officially unveiled the Nike “Year Of The Mamba” collection highlighted by four incredible pieces of footwear artwork. In unveiling this collection, Nike provides a first official look at the upcoming Nike Kobe 9 Elite “Masterpiece” Protro release.
Each pair featured in the Year Of The Mamba collection speaks to key moment throughout the first few weeks of 2025. The duet of Kobe 5s honor Lunar New Year with a decorative take on the silhouette; the Kobe 6 Protro honors the Black Mamba’s everlasting presence at the All-Star Game; the Kobe 9 provides the retro nostalgia that Kobe fans and sneaker fanatics yearn for. Below is an official breakdown of each release.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Masterpiece”
The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Masterpiece” is the original launch colorway of the Kobe 9 signature shoe. It first debuted in late 2013, hitting retail later on February 8th, 2014. Eleven years later, Nike is bringing back this iconic release on the same date — February 8th, 2024. The Protro iteration features updated materials and tech suited for the modern game.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Year Of The Mamba” (Eggplant)
Already previewed several times on Sneaker News is the debut Kobe launch of 2025. Kicking off the “Year Of The Mamba” collection is the Kobe 5 in the “Eggplant” colorway with a gold embroidered snake slithering through the upper. The shoes are confirmed to launch on SNKRS and select retailers on January 9th, 2025 in adult and GS sizes.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Year Of The Mamba” (University Red)
Next up is the alternate second version of the Kobe 5 “Year Of The Mamba”. It’s identical to the above pair, but with a bold and vibrant University Red that better connects to Eastern tradition. A release date is confirmed for January 18th, 2025 exclusively in China (adult and GS sizes confirmed).
Nike Kobe 6 Protro “All-Star”
The final release of the Nike Kobe “Year Of The Mamba” Collection is the Kobe 6 Protro “All-Star”. Debuting at retail on February 13th, 2025, this Kobe 5 alters the distinct snakeskin TPU upper by transforming the scales into small stars. You can find these on SNKRS and select Nike retailers on February 13th, 2025.
