Nike honors Kobe Bryant’s legacy with the Kobe 8 Protro Team Bank Collection, featuring team-ready colorways launching November 8. Simultaneously, Nike introduces the Air Zoom Upturn SC, a sub-$100 sneaker focused on comfort, marking its most affordable yet impressive release in years.
Nike Honors Kobe’s Legacy with Kobe 8 Protro Team Bank Collection, Launching November 8
Kobe Bryant's legacy continues to inspire, both on and off the basketball court. From his relentless pursuit of excellence during his NBA career to his post-career impact on youth basketball and storytelling, the "Mamba Mentality" remains a guiding force for a generation of athletes and creatives. Though Kobe’s story was tragically cut short, the ethos he championed lives on, driving individuals to push boundaries and pursue greatness.
In tribute to Kobe’s influence, Nike is set to release the Team Bank color options of the Kobe Protro line for the first time since the Kobe 5 in the 2010s. The highly anticipated Kobe 8 Protro will arrive in versatile team-friendly colors: Navy/White, Red/White, and Grey/White. Additionally, two Lakers-themed Home and Away colorways are included in the collection, embodying Kobe’s roots with the team he spent his entire career with.
The updated Kobe 8 Protro features Protro modifications, including React Foam drop-in soles, Engineered Mesh uppers, and a redesigned tongue, emphasizing comfort and performance. The Nike Kobe 8 Protro Team Bank Collection is set to release on November 8, 2024, on Nike.com, though only the black and white colorways will be available at launch.
Nike Unveils Air Zoom Upturn SC, a Minimalist $95 Sneaker for Everyday Comfort
In contrast, Nike is also returning to its roots with a more accessible design, the Air Zoom Upturn SC, which reflects the minimalist spirit of the early 2010s Roshe era. Though Roshe’s era-defining comfort and affordability are unlikely to return, Nike aims to appeal to everyday consumers with this new model. Designed primarily for comfort rather than trendsetting, the Air Zoom Upturn SC incorporates a visible 180-degree Zoom Air cushioning unit at the heel, offering responsive support and a heel design inspired by Nike’s running footwear.
With its straightforward upper design featuring thin layers, micro-dot perforations, and minimal branding, the Air Zoom Upturn SC is a versatile, no-frills sneaker designed for everyday wear. Scheduled for release in Spring 2025, this sneaker will retail for $95 and be available in various colorways. Combining understated style with Nike’s signature comfort technology, the Air Zoom Upturn SC offers an affordable option in the brand’s lineup that brings performance principles to the everyday sneaker market.


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