Nike Is Bringing Back the Kobe 9 Elite “What The”

Following the return of the “What The” Kobe 8, Nike Basketball is now set to release a Protro of the Kobe 9 Elite “What The” as part of it’s Summer 2025 lineup.

Originally released in 2015, the Kobe 9 Elite “What The” is equipped with a multicolor Flyknit upper, offering a vibrant aesthetic that combines patterns from previous Kobe colorways. The Kobe 9 itself drew inspiration boxing shoes, featuring an ultra-high-top design for added ankle support and stability. Kobe Bryant was recovering from surgery to repair his Achilles during the Kobe 9 design process, which is represented with “stitch” marks along the heel, dressed in bright blue, green, and orange hues on the “What The” colorways.

The 2025 Protro remains faithful to the original, featuring the same multicolor Flyknit upper and white overlays as the 2015 pair. Reflective details and a multicolor sockliner round out the bold design.

The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “What The” releases May 21st on SNKRS and at select retailers. Check out the official images below.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro “What The”
Color: White/Reflective Silver-Chlorine Blue-Black
Style Code: FZ7335-101
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Price: $240 USD
Resell: StockX