Nike Kobe 11 Elite 'Mamba Out' Set to Return in 2026

Nike is bringing back a piece of basketball history with the Kobe 11 Elite Protro 'Mamba Out,' scheduled to release in Summer 2026 to honor the 10th anniversary of Mamba Day. Originally dropping on April 13, 2016 — the night of Kobe Bryant’s final NBA game — the sneaker launched through NikeiD (now Nike By You), allowing fans to customize their pairs. The release quickly became symbolic, remembered by many as the perfect farewell sneaker for Bryant’s legendary career.

The 2026 protro stays true to the original design, featuring a black Flyknit upper with striking metallic gold accents and hidden tributes to Kobe’s milestones, including his 81-point game, 18 All-Star selections, five championships, and two decades of dominance in the NBA. A crisp white heel detail and icy translucent sole complete the look, reinforcing why this model is considered one of the cleanest in the Kobe line. Its return serves as both a celebration of Bryant’s legacy and a reminder of one of the greatest goodbyes in basketball history.