Caitlin Clark Debuts a WNBA Rookie of the Year-Inspired Nike Kobe 5 Protro PE

The WNBA season is upon us, and in her second year in the league, Caitlin Clark is looking to continue her dominance on the court. Collecting many accolades in her first season, Clark was named an All-Star, led the league in assists, and earned the rookie of the year award. While we’re all still waiting for Nike to give Caitlin her signature sneaker, the Beaverton-based sportswear brand crafted a player-exclusive version of the Nike Kobe 5 honoring Caitlin’s rookie of the year achievement.

Debuted in the Fever’s season-opening game, Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro Rookie of the Year PE comes coated in a metallic silver hue that mimics the trophy awarded to the WNBA’s best rookie. The design covers the toebox, midfoot, heel tab, and tongue. Contrasting the metallic overlays are pops of red, taking over the Swoosh, lace set, mesh tongue, Kobe sheath logo, collar, and sockliner. This marks yet another Nike Kobe PE for Caitlin, following up on the Kobe 6 Green Mamba and her Iowa-Themed Kobe 5.

In her first game rocking the sneaker, Clark went off, dropping a triple-double with 10 assists, 10 rebounds, and 20 points in the Fever’s staggering 93-58 win against the Chicago Sky. Also noteworthy was an altercation with another WNBA superstar, Angel Reese, as Caitlin drew a flagrant foul in the third quarter. Reese, like Clark, is also in line to become the next WNBA star with her signature sneaker, which is with Reebok.

Caitlin Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro Rookie of the Year PE is a 1-of-1 made specifically for Clark, and unfortunately, won’t be released to the public. Check below for a shot of Clark's shoe, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com