Honoring a Legend: Nike Unveils the “year of the Mamba” Collection
Nike Basketball pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Kobe Bryant with the highly anticipated “Year of the Mamba” collection,coinciding with the Lunar Year of the Snake in 2025. This special release goes beyond a simple product launch; it’s a party of Kobe’s “Mamba Mentality” – an unwavering pursuit of excellence that continues to inspire athletes worldwide.
The collection’s centerpiece is the reimagined Kobe 5 Protro,available in striking purple and red colorways. These shoes, known for their lightweight design and exceptional court feel, feature Zoom Air cushioning in the forefoot and Cushlon foam in the midfoot, ensuring optimal performance.
Nike further elevates the tribute with the Kobe 9 Elite High Protro “Masterpiece” and the Kobe 6 Protro “Sail.” These iconic silhouettes have been meticulously redesigned to resonate with contemporary trends while honoring Kobe’s legacy.
The Kobe 9 High Protro, a decade after its initial release, receives a modern upgrade with a React foam midsole and a redesigned outsole for enhanced traction, while retaining its beloved Flyknit upper. The Kobe 6 Protro,meanwhile,embraces two distinct design approaches: one adorned with stars,symbolizing Kobe’s All-Star achievements,and the other showcasing a captivating “mamba shedding” effect.
The apparel collection complements the footwear with pieces like the classic Kobe Bryant Jacket. crafted with a luxurious satin finish and an embossed lining for comfort and warmth,it features a striking embroidered design on the back – a snake entwined with five championship rings,representing Kobe’s unwavering dedication and his five NBA titles. This motif, symbolizing Kobe’s relentless pursuit of greatness, is echoed throughout the collection’s T-shirts, sports tops, and trousers.the “Year of the Mamba” collection launches in phases, starting with the Kobe 5 Protro “Year of the Mamba” shoes and apparel on January 9th, available through Nike.com and select Nike retailers. The Kobe 9 Elite High Protro “Masterpiece” and its corresponding apparel line will follow on February 8th, with the Kobe 6 Protro “Sail” releasing on February 13th.
Remembering teh Mamba: An Exclusive Interview on Nike’s “Year of the Mamba” Collection
We all remember where we were when we heard the news. The loss of Kobe Bryant sent shockwaves through the world, leaving a void in the basketball community that may never truly be filled. But his legacy lives on, inspiring athletes and fans alike. Today, we’re joined by three-time NBA champion and former teammate of Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, to discuss Nike’s upcoming “Year of the Mamba” collection, designed to celebrate Kobe’s enduring impact on the sport and his “Mamba Mentality.”
Welcome, Pau. This collection is clearly a tribute to Kobe on a deeper level than just releasing new shoes. What are your thoughts on Nike’s approach to honoring his legacy?
Pau Gasol: Thank you for having me. it’s always emotional talking about Kobe, but seeing this collection brings back so many positive memories. Nike has done an incredible job capturing the essence of what Kobe represented. It’s not just about the shoes; it’s about the spirit, the dedication, the relentless pursuit of excellence that he embodied. I think fans will truly connect with that.
The Kobe 5 Protro returns in striking purple and red colorways. For those who might not be familiar, can you explain how this shoe represents Kobe’s playing style?
PG: The Kobe 5 was Kobe at his peak. It was all about lightweight agility, explosiveness, and that low-to-the-ground feel that allowed him to make those lightning-fast cuts and changes of direction.
This shoe was built for his game. I know he loved how it felt on the court.
Nike is also releasing redesigned versions of the Kobe 9 Elite high Protro and Kobe 6 Protro. How do you feel about them modernizing thes classic silhouettes?
PG: It’s a great way to introduce Kobe’s legacy to a new generation of players. While staying true to the original designs, the upgrades – like the React foam and redesigned outsole on the Kobe 9 – make them even more relevant for today’s game.
One striking detail in the collection is the Kobe Bryant Jacket, featuring that powerful image of a snake entwined with five championship rings. What was Kobe’s relationship like with snakes, and how did it become associated with his persona?
PG: Kobe adopted the “Black Mamba” nickname himself, inspired by the snake’s focused, deadly nature. He saw it as a reflection of his own killer instinct on the court. It wasn’t just about aggression; it was about being calculated, precise, and always in control.
Do you think this collection will resonate with Kobe’s fans and inspire future generations of players?
PG: Absolutely.When you wear these shoes or put on that jacket, you’re not just wearing clothes; you’re carrying a piece of Kobe’s spirit.His dedication, his work ethic, his unwavering belief in himself – it’s all captured in this collection.
I know it will inspire players—both young and old— to push themselves further and to always strive for greatness.
Kobe’s impact went far beyond basketball.He was a global icon, an inspiration to millions. What message do you think he would want to leave for his fans?
PG: Kobe would want everyone to strive to be the best versions of themselves, weather on the court, in their careers, or in life. He believed that through hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief, anything is absolutely possible.
“Mamba Mentality” is about more than just basketball; it’s about chasing your dreams with unwavering passion.
We thank Pau Gasol for his insights into Kobe’s legacy and this powerful collection. For our readers, how do you feel about the “Year of the mamba” collection? Will you be rocking these sneakers and apparel? Let us know in the comments below.
