While things might have started slow for the return of the Nike Kobe line, it was full steam ahead throughout 2024. With classics such as the Kobe 4 Protro Philly, Kobe 6 Protro Italian Camo, and the Kobe 8 Protro Venice Beach, Nike, and Vanessa Bryant are set to ensure plenty of future Kobe releases. Next will be a new entry in the Mambacita series on the Kobe 9 EM.
After getting pushed back a few times and floating in limbo, Nike has finally decided the fate of the Kobe 9 Low EM Mambacita. It will be released in May 2025 with a theme change from Gift of Mamba to Mambacita.
We see a gradient white-to-black color scheme on the engineered mesh base, starting white near the toe and turning to black as you work back. Pops of metallic gold are on the Swoosh on the midfoot, the Kobe sheath logo on the tongue, and the Gigi text on the heel tab. Final details include a black tongue, lace set, marbled midsole, and outsole, and React cushioning in the drop-in midsole.
This pair will also be the first Kobe 9 Low EM release, following high and low-top versions of the Kobe 9 Elite. Expect more of the Kobe 9 Low EM throughout 2025, as we confirmed the next Team Bank series of Kobe Protros will highlight the Engineered Mesh iteration of the Kobe 9 Low.
The Nike Kobe 9 Low EM Mambacita was originally set to release in December 2024. However, as the theme was changed, the drop was pushed back to May 1, 2025. They will be available through Nike, SNKRS, and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men's and gradeschool sizing, retail is $180 and $120, respectively. Keep it locked to the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest sneaker releases, raffles, and news.
Images via Nike
Images via chickenwop_
Image for reference only. Final product may differ.
Image via Vanessa Bryant
Steve Jaconetta is the Head of Content based out of Connecticut. An encyclopedia for sneaker releases, he's covered the industry for over fifteen years. His stops have included Sole Collector, Complex, and StockX, to name a few. He considers the Air Jordan 11 Concord the greatest sneaker of all time and has a strong affection for 80s pop culture. Email: steve@soleretriever.com
