Nike is bringing back one of the most iconic Kobe Bryant colorways of all time: the Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points”. This edition pays tribute to Kobe’s historic 81-point game on January 22, 2006 — a performance that remains etched in NBA lore.
Design & Materials
Upper Construction: The shoe features a premium white leather upper that closely mirrors the original 2006 PE version, but enhanced for modern wear.
Colorway: The color scheme stays true to its roots — White dominates the upper, paired with Black Swoosh accents and Court Purple around the ankle collar and most of the midsole.
Accents: Yellow/gold details appear on the tongue branding, including Kobe’s shield logo; “UPTEMPO” text is embroidered on the heel in a nod to the original.
Performance Tech: True to its “Protro” label, the sneaker is upgraded under the hood. It includes modern Zoom Air cushioning for responsive energy return, along with a carbon-fiber shank plate for torsional stability.
Insole Design: The insoles pay homage to key cities linked to Bryant’s scoring binge: Los Angeles, Houston, Atlanta, and Denver.
Outsole: A purple- and black-rubber outsole completes the design, maintaining the classic look and on-court grip.
Sneaker Files
Packaging & Details
While concrete details about special packaging are still emerging, reports hint at a commemorative touch for this anniversary drop. According to Sneaker Freaker, the reissue may feature packaging that references Kobe’s 81-point game milestone, potentially with nods to the date or game itself.
Release Information
Here’s what we know so far:
Release Date: January 22, 2026 — exactly 20 years after Kobe’s 81-point performance.
Retail Price: $210 USD.
SKU / Style Code: IM0542-100.
Availability: Expected to drop on Nike SNKRS and via select Nike Basketball retailers.
Why This Release Matters
This isn’t just another retro — it’s a 20th anniversary homage. Kobe’s 81-point game remains one of the most formidable single-game performances in modern NBA history, and Nike is clearly leaning into that legacy.
The Protro update ensures that fans and hoopers alike can actually play in a shoe that feels close to the original, but with today’s comfort and support.
Plus, because this marks the third time this colorway has been released (and only the second time for a wide release), demand is expected to be high.
Final Word & How to Stay Updated
The Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” returns not just as a retrospective drop, but as a high-performance celebration of one of Kobe’s most breathtaking games. With its classic white-black-purple palette, performance upgrades, and commemorative timing, it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Kobe releases of 2026.
