The Nike Kobe 9 Elite "What The" Returns for Mamba Day 2025

Nike continues to pay tribute to Kobe Bryant's legacy by reintroducing classic colorways and models from his signature line. The latest news from House of Heat° + Eldenmonitors confirms that in summer 2025, the Kobe IX Elite Protro "What The" is expected to return for Mamba Day 2025.

Mirroring the eclectic design of the original "What The" Kobe, this anticipated re-release is expected to showcase the same vibrant mishmash of colors and patterns that made the initial release a standout.

It's currently unclear if the 2025 release will be a one-for-one retro or if any modifications will be made.

Of course, this won't be the only "What The" Kobe retro on the way, with the Nike Kobe 8 of the same name also expected to return in 2025, while anoter Kobe 9 Eilte is in the works, with the legendary "Masterpiece" colorway also expected for a re-release.

Expect more details to emerge soon; Until then, you can reacquaint yourself with the original release from 2015 below.

This is just one of a handful of new releases revealed for the year ahead, you can also get a glimpse of all upcoming drops from the Swoosh on our dedicated Nike Release Dates page.