First Look at the 2026 Nike Kobe 11 Protro Mamba Day

Published March 12, 2026 at 3:16 PM

Quick Facts

The first image of the 2026 Nike Kobe 11 Protro Mamba Day has found its way online
Just like the original in 2016, the pair features a black base with golden number commemorating Bryant's illustrious NBA career plastered across the design
Expect a release Summer 2026, potentially on Mamba Day (April 13, 2026) for $220

In just about one month's time, we’ll be celebrating Mamba Day. April 13, 2016, was the final time Kobe Bryant laced up his shoes in an NBA game, and it’s become an annual event commemorating all things Black Mamba. Historically, Nike has celebrated the occasion by releasing Kobe sneakers, and this year is no different. Rumored to be part of the Mamba Day drop for 2026 is the Nike Kobe 11 Protro Mamba Day.

Originally released as a NikeiD (now known as Nike By You) on April 13, 2016 during Kobe’s final game, the pair has not returned since. We knew it would not be available on the By You platform this time around, but the first look shows us that Nike is keeping the sneaker 1:1 with the OG drop. A black upper allows the golden numbers to shine through, commemorating Kobe’s career. There are his jersey numbers, 24 and 8, as well as the dates for his debut and final game (11/01/1996 and 04/13/2016), nods to his five championship wins, four All-Star MVPs, 18 All-Star appearances, his 81-point game (Bam Adebayo actually just surpassed this), and his 20 years in the NBA.

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FIRST LOOK: Nike Kobe 11 Protro “Mamba Day” 🐍 🗓️ Summer 2026 📝 IU4902-900 💵 $220 📷 @xcsnkr

2:48 PM · Mar 12, 2026

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On the reverse of the tongue, Nike places a “2026” tag. On the original release, fans were able to customize the text on this tag, with the base design originally featuring “Mamba” and “4.13.” Finishing the 2026 Protro is an icy translucent outsole. Exactly what tech upgrades have been made to make this a proper Protro have not been revealed yet, but we’re sure to find out soon.

The Nike Kobe 11 Protro Mamba Day is slated for a Summer 2026 release, with a rumor of a Mamba Day (April 13) release. Available via Nike and select retailers, the retail price is set at $220. Check below for a first look at the 2026 version of the model, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest happenings in the sneaker world.