First Look at Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'Draft Day' and Air Jordan 11 'Bred Velvet'

The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Draft Day” is rumored to return, celebrating Kobe Bryant's historic draft moment. Meanwhile, Jordan Brand is set to release the Air Jordan 11 “Bred Velvet” this holiday season, offering a luxurious take on the iconic Bred colorway with velvet materials.

Nike Revives Kobe 5 Protro 'Draft Day' to Honor Bryant's Iconic Trade and Draft History

One of the most intriguing "What If" scenarios in sports history is imagining what might have happened had Kobe Bryant never been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Charlotte Hornets, the team initially drafted him. That monumental trade reshaped the fates of both franchises, sending them down drastically different paths and cementing Kobe's legacy with the Lakers.

To commemorate that pivotal moment, Nike has periodically released the Kobe "Draft Day" series, featuring Kobe’s signature footwear in the Hornets’ colors of light blue, purple, and white. The series has always been a fan favorite, combining the significance of Bryant’s draft history with the appealing aesthetics of the Hornets’ color scheme. Although the releases have paused in recent years, the "Draft Day" editions remain highly sought after.

Initially released in May 2010, the Nike Kobe 5 "Draft Day" reportedly returns in Protro form. A leaked image suggests the shoe’s return, though it’s unclear whether it will hit stores later this year or around the 2025 NBA Draft, a fitting timeline given the sneaker’s historic ties.

Jordan Brand Unveils Air Jordan 11 'Bred Velvet' for 2024 Holiday Season with Luxurious Twist

Meanwhile, the Air Jordan 11 continues its reign as Jordan Brand's annual holiday staple, releasing consistently in coveted colorways at the end of each year. For the 2024 holiday season, Jordan Brand is bringing back classic looks, including the Jordan 11 Legend Blue (formerly known as "Columbia") and the highly anticipated Jordan 11 "Bred Velvet" for women.

First teased in December 2023, the Jordan 11 "Bred Velvet" delivers exactly what its name suggests. Using the iconic black, white, and "Varsity Red" color blocking of the original "Bred" design, this edition replaces the traditional patent leather, canvas, and mesh upper with a luxurious velvet material. Additional premium touches include a metallic red Jumpman logo on the heel, all-red tongue text, and red lace tips, giving the shoe a refined, elevated feel.

Though this isn't the first time Jordan Brand has reimagined original colorways with non-traditional materials—satin Jordan 1s for women come to mind—these releases still generate significant buzz. While some Jordan purists may long for a proper retro release, there's no denying the strong demand for non-traditional versions like the Bred Velvet.

According to Sneaker News, the Air Jordan 11 Bred Velvet is scheduled to drop on November 11th, 2024, in women’s sizes for $225. Check out the gallery below, and stay tuned to our Jordan Release Dates page as we track official images and potential early drops.