Nike is celebrating Mamba Day 2025 with the release of the Kobe 8 Protro “What The” and an accompanying “What The Kobe” collection.

Originally released in 2013, the Kobe 8 “What The” features a mash-up design, incorporating elements from nearly 30 different Kobe 8 colorways into one pair of shoes. The left shoe is dressed in a mix of red, blue, and purple hues, while the right shoe features primarily orange and green shades. This colorway is now making its return in 2025, staying true to the original’s mismatched design.

This Kobe 8 is one of several “What The” Nike Basketball shoes released over the years, though the mash-up theme was first introduced by Nike SB on the Dunk Low “What The” in 2007. The appeal of the “What The” series lies in its unpredictable design that combines elements from past releases, creating a striking, one-of-a-kind look.

The “What The” Kobe 8 Protro will be accompanied by a full “What The Kobe” collection of apparel and accessories. Hoodies and tees are adorned with multicolored “What The” Kobe Sheath logos, while mesh jerseys and basketball shorts feature a reversible design with black on one side and the “What The” multicolor pattern on the other. A Kobe “What The” basketball rounds out the collection.

This collection is releasing as part of Nike’s Mamba Day 2025 festivities, a holiday created to celebrate the anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s final NBA game on April 13, 2016. Last year’s Mamba Day celebration featured three Kobe releases: the Kobe 4 “Philly,” Kobe 8 Protro “Venice Beach,” and Kobe 6 Protro “Italian Camo.”

The Nike Kobe 8 Protro “What The” and accompanying “What The Kobe” collection are set to release on April 13th via SNKRS and select retailers. Check out the official images below.

Nike Kobe 8 Protro “What The”
Color: Multi-Color/Multi-Color-Multi-Color
Style Code: HM9621-900
Release Date: April 13, 2025
Price: $190 USD
Resell: StockX

Nike “What The Kobe” Collection
Release Date: April 13, 2025