Philadelphia’s connection to the Mamba Legacy is being celebrated in a fantastic way. Nike is giving a nod to Kobe Bryant’s hometown with the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Philly.” Expected to drop this summer, the new edition comes in a colorway special to Philadelphia. While Los Angeles and the Lakers remain synonymous with Bryant’s NBA career, his connection with Philadelphia will not be forgotten this way.

Nike renewed its partnership with Bryant’s estate in 2022. It’s since brought back some of its underrated classics that reflect the Mamba history. Complementing the return of the Kobe 8 Protro “Venice Beach,” the 2009 signature shoe, Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Philly” will drop this year – speculated to be in April – for a retail price of $180.

The Kobe “Philly” is the most underrated design in the Nike locker. First images of the 2024 Protro version have surfaced and it apparently has both new design additions but also draws from the OG. The 15-year-old design comes in a USA-inspired palette. It has the flywire silhouette and color block signature of the 2009 edition. “Varsity Royal” and “University Red” hues make it stand out while collar lining, laces, and white profile swooshes complement it.

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Drawing from the original version, reflective 3M stars feature at the ankle collar. The Zoom-cushioned sole unit is a feature in the back half. Bryant’s “8-23-78” birthday is inscribed along the insoles. The Black Mamba’s signature features on the heel too. This release is special because Kobe’s connection to Philly goes way back.

Kobe Bryant’s connection to the City of Brotherly Love

Joe “Jellybean” Bryant’s son was born in Lower Merion, Pennsylvania, where he first picked up a basketball as a kid. He later spent his formative years in Italy after his dad retired from the NBA. The Bryant family moved to Philadelphia when Kobe was 13. Bryant became famous nationwide as the star of Lower Merion High School’s basketball team. He ended his high school career surpassing Wilt Chamberlain’s Southeastern Pennsylvania all-time leading scorer record.

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His biggest connection remains his father. Joe Bryant spent the majority of his NBA career with the Philadelphia 76ers in the ’70s. The then-Sixers coach was also intrigued by Jellybean’s top national prospect son. So it makes sense that Nike would release a Philly version.

The exact release date is still awaited. In the meantime, check out the early designs of the 2024 Protro version of the Nike Kobe 4 “Philly.”

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