Celebrate Kobe's Birthday With 5 Legendary Nike Sneakers

Today would have been Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant's 48th birthday. While it will always be bittersweet, Nike and Vanessa Bryant have done an incredible job of turning the day into a celebration of the Mamba Mentality.

Plus, most models from the Nike Kobe signature sneaker line are widely available at retailers. Even better, some of the iconic kicks are marked down in price. Below are five of Bryant's signature sneakers that athletes and fans should invest in today.

Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro "WNBA All-Star"

The Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro "WNBA All-Star" colorway dropped on July 24, 2026. Surprisingly, the sneakers didn't sell out on release day. Online shoppers can still buy the performance basketball shoes for $190 in adult sizes exclusively on Nike.com.

This low-cut version of Bryant's third signature sneaker is a celebration of the world's best women's basketball players. It features a cool blend of Hot Punch and Sail with a metallic finish. It is reminiscent of Bryant's 2007-08 NBA MVP season, but designed to honor the WNBA.

Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Draft Day"

Details on the Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Draft Pack" colorways. — The Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Draft Pack" colorways. | Nike

The Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Draft Pack" colorways dropped on June 26, 2026. Online shoppers can try to buy one of the mystery colorways for $200 in adult sizes at Foot Locker.

Bryant's fourth signature sneaker remembers the 1996 NBA Draft that changed history. The collection is a randomized, mystery purchase experience. Winners will learn which colorway they received when they open their box.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low EM Protro "Hornets"

The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low EM Protro "Hornets" dropped on June 1, 2026. The shoes originally had a retail price of $190 in adult sizes, but are marked down to $133.97 (29% off) at Foot Locker.

Once again celebrating the 30th anniversary of the most infamous trade of all time, Nike revisited the "Hornets" theme with a mix of purple and teal on Bryant's 9th signature sneaker.

Nike Kobe 10 Protro "Halo"

The Nike Kobe 10 Protro "Halo" was released today, August 23, 2026. Online shoppers can still find the basketball shoes in most adult sizes on the Nike SNKRS app.

Every year, Nike celebrates Bryant's birthday with the heavenly "Halo" colorway. The all-white silhouette is more than a sweet tribute, it marks the first time the Nike Kobe 10 got upgraded as part of the Protro series.

Nike Kobe 11 EM Protro "Mamba Day"

Side view of the Nike Kobe 11 Protro 'Mamba Day' colorway. — The Nike Kobe 11 Protro 'Mamba Day' colorway. | Nike

The Nike Kobe 11 EM Protro "Mamba Day" colorway dropped on April 13, 2026. The basketball shoes were restocked in July for $220 in adult sizes at Foot Locker.

Bryant did not wear these shoes during his final game (he wore the Nike Kobe 11 Elite Low "Fade to Black"), but they were originally released on the same day in 2016. After ten years, the Nike Kobe 11 Protro made its upgraded debut in a historic colorway.

Hopefully everyone who wants a pair of Nike Kobe sneakers can get some. More importantly, take the lessons he learned about hard work and dedication. Stay locked into Sports Illustrated's Kicks On SI for all your footwear news from the NBA and beyond.

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