Expected to release in May this year, the Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacita” is a unique addition to the shoe line. Apart from its unique and aesthetically pleasing look, it pulls at the heartstrings too because it’ll be yet another way for sneakerheads to remember Gigi Bryant and, by extension, her superstar father, Kobe.
Remembering Gigi Bryant
Many around the world collectively mourned Kobe Bryant’s tragic passing in January 2020. Alongside the grief we felt because we’d lost a sports legend, we also ached deeply for his daughter, Gianna, affectionately known as Gigi. Her death resonated so much because, in that moment, she wasn’t just Kobe’s child; she embodied so much that inspires us.
Gigi was a young talent passionate about basketball, inheriting her father’s “Mamba Mentality.” She wasn’t just Kobe’s legacy but a potential star in her own right, brimming with potential and the promise of future greatness. For this reason, the tributes to Gianna have been as heartfelt as those for Kobe.
Since her passing – and with the permission of Vanessa Bryant and Kobe Bryant’s estate – Nike, a longtime collaborator with Kobe, has honoured Gigi’s memory with a special edition shoe called “Mambacita” within the iconic Kobe line. Fans can think of it as a collection within a collection. Following two previous releases – the “Mambacita Sweet 16” Kobe 6 and the “Mambacita” Kobe 4 – the upcoming Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacita” will add to that tribute series, honouring the enduring inspiration Gianna left behind while allowing sneaker lovers to be part of that legacy.
The Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacita” Design
This colourway takes a simple yet powerful approach. Getting its inspiration from the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation jerseys, the shoe’s palette is simple but classic black and white. This version moves away from past releases of the “Mambacita” line by featuring a striking butterfly motif on the white engineered mesh upper. Though nothing official has been said about the significance of the butterflies, we’ll assume it’s either a symbolic reference to something Gigi loved or a metaphor for the potential and transformation that was tragically cut short. Whatever it is, this intricate patterning creates a visually captivating design element, setting this “Mambacita” apart from its predecessors.
Black accents are found on the shoe’s laces, inner lining, and midsole. As a unique and classy touch, metallic gold accents are placed on the Swooshes, which are elegant and subtly allude to Gigi’s competitive spirit. Gold represents winning and excellence, and we know very well the cloth from which Gigi was cut. Kobe valued hard work and victory as part of the “Mamba Mentality” he championed.
A solid white rubber sole and personalized details on the heels are rounding off the shoe’s design. The left heel proudly displays “Gigi” in bold lettering, while the right heel features her jersey number, “2”. Also in gold is a beautiful heart-shaped tongue tag with the word “Mambacita” embossed on it, and under that, angel wings. This shoe is as beautiful as it is moving to behold.
Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacita” Pricing And Other Details
As mentioned above, the Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacita” will be released in May, specifically on May 1st, Gigi’s birthday.
According to Hypebeast, launch pricing will likely be set at US$190 for men, with Sneaker Bar Detroit adding that grade school and preschool prices will be $120 and $90, respectively. The shoe will be available online and in retail stores.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Nike Kobe sneaker line, we have you covered. Otherwise, let us know if you have your sights set on a pair of “Mambacitas” when they release.
