The WNBA is tipping off its thirtieth season this year, marking another decade of professional basketball. Nike has lined up a range of special releases for the occasion, now including a pale orange pair of the Kobe 9 Protro.
The WNBA has reached some historic highs in the last few years. The women’s professional basketball league has made immense strides in popularity since 2020, with players like Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and A’ja Wilson drawing in new audiences. Viewership and attendance are both up, and new teams in existing markets like the Golden State Valkyries are bringing new fans to the fold. After the player’s association won new contract negotiations for higher pay last year, things are looking up for the WNBA. This year, the league is celebrating thirty years of pro basketball, with their new season set to kick off in early May. Nike has a few special releases lined up for the anniversary, including this Kobe 9 Protro colorway. The new style leans on the WNBA’s signature orange branding, casting the shoe in a gradient or orange tones, with white midsoles and a glossy Swoosh to complete the look.
NIKE KOBE 9 PROTRO “WNBA” RELEASE INFORMATION
Nike special release of the Kobe 9 Protro, celebrating the thirtieth season for the WNBA, has not been officially announced yet, but is expected to drop on May 8th, 2026. This date coincides with the tip off for the upcoming WNBA season. The show comes in shades of orange mimicking the league’s branding, and will be available from Nike and select retaielrs for $190.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low EM Protro “WNBA”
Color: Orange Frost/Brilliant Orange-Summit White-Ice Peach
Style Code: IM6119-800
Release Date: May 8th, 2026
Price: $190
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