KICKS CREW

Kobe 4 Protro 'CHBL' Honors Mamba Mentality

Inspired by Kobe’s lesson in discipline and grit.

ByAaron ShamimMay 26, 2025

Kobe 4 Protro 'CHBL' Honors Mamba Mentality

Nike continues its support of the Chinese High School Basketball League (CHBL) with a stunning new iteration of the Kobe 4 Protro—arguably the most coveted silhouette from the Nike Kobe line. This year’s special release stands out with a striking gradient fade from Soft Yellow to a bolder Lightning tone, enhanced by speckled detailing along the midsole for extra visual pop. A set of alternate Dusty Cactus laces offers added flair, but the shoe primarily stays grounded in warm tones, nodding to the passion and energy of China’s rising basketball talent.

Kobe 4 Protro 'CHBL' Honors Channels Mamba Mentality

The design also features unique insole branding with the phrase “Touch The Line”—a motivational motto that subtly links to a touching story of Kobe. During a drill, one player failed to touch the baseline during sprints. Kobe Bryant immediately halted the session, made the player run again—and joined him for the final sprint. That act of accountability and leadership now fuels the message behind this release: a tribute to those who put in the unseen work, push through the grind, and rise to greatness through discipline and resilience.

The Nike Kobe 4 Protro 'CHBL' will be released in summer 2025 exclusively in China. Stay up to date on every upcoming Kobe release with our Nike Kobe Release Dates calendar.