Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro TB Black University Gold

Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro TB "Lakers Away" – Black / University Gold / White

The Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro TB is part of Nike's 2025 "Team Bank" monthly series — a program that mirrors the Kobe 8 Team Bank initiative and puts one of Nike Basketball's most celebrated silhouettes back on-court. The "Black/University Gold" colorway, nicknamed "Lakers Away," draws directly from the Los Angeles Lakers' road uniform palette, pairing a black engineered mesh upper with University Gold Swoosh logos and stitching. A jeweled purple Kobe Sheath logo on the tongue and a speckled heel counter panel add depth to the bold two-tone blocking.

The "EM" (Engineered Mesh) construction is a deliberate design choice, echoing the original low-cut Kobe 9 EM program that prioritized breathability, flexibility, and a closer-to-court feel. The Protro update replaces the original Lunarlon setup with a drop-in React foam midsole and Zoom Air cushioning for improved responsiveness, while Dynamic Flywire cables provide dynamic lockdown. The outsole carries the signature anatomical "fingerprint" traction pattern — a pressure-map-inspired design widely regarded as one of the standout innovations in Nike Basketball history. This "Lakers Away" edition also features the word "Relentless" stitched inside the tongue, a nod to Kobe Bryant's legendary work ethic. The iconic Achilles stitching and Kobe's signature return as well.

Details

• Style Code: IH1401-002
• Colorway: Black / University Gold / White
• Nickname: Lakers Away
• Collection: Nike Kobe 9 EM "Team Bank" (TB) Series
• Release Date: September 1, 2025
• Upper: Engineered Mesh with Dynamic Flywire cables
• Midsole: Drop-in React foam with Zoom Air cushioning
• Outsole: Anatomical "fingerprint" traction pattern, rubber
• Notable Detail: "Relentless" stitched inside tongue; Kobe Sheath logo on tongue; Achilles stitching at heel
• Silhouette: Low-top basketball