Originally debuting in February 2014 as a coveted Kobe 9 colorway, the “Masterpiece” is making a grand entrance in Protro form; retaining the essence of the shoe while offering enhanced performance features—as Kobe Bryant himself wanted.

The pair stuns with a Black base complemented by a polychromatic blend of colors addressing its Flyknit construction. The Black Mamba’s Sheath logo takes center stage on the tongue. Proximate to it are the 3M reflective, Metallic Silver profile Swooshes, accented by paint splatter detailing. Carbon fiber elements on the midsole round out its design.

The origin of the silhouette was partly inspired by Filipino boxing legend, Manny Pacquiao. “I was with [Manny] Pacquiao, watching him train and prepare for a fight,” Bryant told Boardroom’s Nick DePaula. “I’m looking down and looking at his boxing moves and saying, ‘Hey, I wonder if there’s something there.’”

The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Masterpiece” will arrive in Spring 2025 by way of Nike, SNKRS, and select retailers. They will be available in both men’s and grade school sizing for US$240 and US$140, respectively.

Source: Sole Retriever

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