Nike Kobe 9 EM "China" Returns for Holiday 2025

Nike and the late Kobe Bryant have become synonymous with Lunar New Year celebrations, with 2025 shaping up to be the self-proclaimed "Year of the Mamba." The year has already seen reptile-inspired designs, the return of the "Moonwalker" Kobe 9, and collaborations with FC Barcelona and the LA Dodgers. But no "Year of the Mamba" celebration would be complete without the return of the Nike Kobe 9 EM "China," a pair that first debuted in 2014.

Released as an homage to Kobe's deep connection to China, where he often hosted youth basketball camps, the "China" colorway features vibrant details and a design inspired by his bond with Chinese fans. Over a decade later, the sneaker is set to return, according to reports from zSneakerheadz.

While it's unclear whether the 2025 release will be an exact retro of the original or feature updated details, the return of this iconic colorway adds to an already packed lineup for the retro Kobe line this year. With more details expected to emerge in the coming months, the anticipation for this release continues to build.

Expect the Nike Kobe 9 EM "China" to arrive during the Holiday 2025 season. Stay tuned for further updates and official images