Nike is releasing the “What The Kobe?” apparel collection on April 13, 2025, in time for Mamba Day. The drop pays tribute to Kobe Bryant’s sneaker legacy through a series of performance pieces built from references to his most recognizable colorways. Designed for movement and visually layered with past cues, the collection is Nike’s latest expansion of Kobe’s on- and off-court legacy.
Premium 8P Basketball
The most unexpected item in the drop is the Premium 8P Basketball, priced at $150. This limited-release ball is constructed using a blend of rubber and synthetic leather. The outer shell features an explosion of color, with each panel inspired by a different Kobe sneaker release. Designed as much for display as for play, it comes packaged with a custom ball stand and special-edition box. The Premium 8P Basketball adds a collectible twist to Nike’s Mamba Day 2025 output.
Nike Therma-FIT Pullover Hoodie
At $130, the Nike Therma-FIT Pullover Hoodie delivers technical warmth and ventilation through a dual-layer construction. A soft fleece core is topped with a breathable mesh outer shell. The hood lining and drawcords feature saturated color pulled from Kobe 8 releases, linking the garment visually to the sneaker side of the collection. The Kobe Sheath logo is placed at the chest in tonal embroidery. Designed for use in warmups or off-court wear, the hoodie provides insulation without adding unnecessary weight.
Nike Dri-FIT Reversible Jersey
The Reversible Jersey, retailing at $90, is built with performance mesh and moisture-wicking Dri-FIT fabric on both sides. Each side offers a unique colorway from the Kobe archive, allowing wearers to flip between two distinctive looks. Both Kobe Bryant’s jersey numbers – 8 and 24 – are stitched into the design, reinforcing its commemorative role. While clearly engineered for the court, the use of bright and clashing color panels gives it added crossover appeal.
Nike 6″ Dri-FIT Reversible Basketball Shorts
Paired with the jersey, the 6″ Dri-FIT Reversible Basketball Shorts ($90) continue the same reversible concept. Made from breathable mesh, the shorts use sweat-wicking fabric to support movement during gameplay. One side features multicolor design elements aligned with the “What The” visual identity, while the reverse offers a more neutral scheme. The shorts are cut for agility and serve as a functional piece with built-in visual contrast.
This year’s Mamba Day release also includes the return of the Kobe 8 Protro “What The” sneaker. Originally launched in 2013, the updated model features React cushioning and engineered mesh while retaining its mismatched aesthetic. Both the sneaker and the apparel will be available April 13, 2025, through Nike SNKRS and select retailers.
