The signature shoes that Nike creates with the legendary basketball players have always been a symbol of their memories. As the Kobe Bryant Day kicks off in Los Angeles on August 24, the Mamba Invitational is ready to host the elite high school athletes from nationwide. This time, LeBron James’ younger prodigy, Bryce James, is going to showcase his skills with the spirit that Kobe instilled in every player. And what better way it could be to honor the Black Mamba than with his own signature shoe? Well, that’s exactly what Bryce did!

As per a snippet of Bryce James from Mamba Invitational 2024 on X, the 17-year-old was donning the latest Philly Kobe 4. Notably, the shoe model is part of the Nike Kobe line that got out on April 13, 2024. This line of shoes made its return along with two other models Kobe line, Kobe 8 Protro “Venice Beach” and Kobe 6 Protro “Italian Camo.” The official name of the model that Bryce was rocking at the event was Kobe 4 Protro “Philly”.

What stands out for these shoes is the color combination of red, white, and blue. Moreover, the eye-catching shade with red sock liner and swoosh with red outline stands best with the best blue color. As per the official Nike store, the retail price of the shoe is about $190. Another highlight of these Nike Kobe 4 “Philly” is that they are the replica of the 2009 typical Nike Kobe model. Apparently, they have made a comeback this year. And it couldn’t have been better than donning them at the two-day basketball tournament from Nike, the Mamba Invitational.

However, since the Philly Kobe 4 made a return, did they vanish, or did Nike stop them 15 years ago?

Bryce James’ shoes are not the original 2009 Philly Kobe 4s!

In reality, the shoes that Bryce James donned are the Protro edition of the original 2009 shoes. It was the idea of the legend Kobe Bryant himself to merge classic Kobe’s design with modern-day performance tech. The original design that came out in 2009 was to challenge the low-top basketball sneaker from Adidas, the Gil Zero. It was a market that Nike’s competitor was already dominating at that time.

That’s why Kobe took inspiration from soccer players’ low-cut cleats to design the Nike Kobe 4. Therefore, it gave rise to shoes built for speed and grip. The shoe model was already a success among hoopers. However, the Lakers star was from Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, and he often affirmed his love for Philly. That’s why Nike decided to launch the Philly Kobe 4 line.

Its signature feature was the stars around the heel portion in 76ers Philly blue. Bryce James, being a gentleman, found no better way than to honor the wishes and legacy of Kobe Bryant through a shoe with such a rich history. And it is absolutely adorable, considering how much we loved the Black Mamba!

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Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger