Summary
- The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Duke” PE is a special edition honoring Duke University with a Varsity Royal, black, and white colorway
- The design features the classic low-cut silhouette with an emphasis on performance and the Duke Blue Devils aesthetic
- The shoe pays tribute to Kobe Bryant’s stated desire to attend Duke, but the PE is not scheduled for public release
The iconic Nike Kobe 5 Protro receives a special collegiate makeover, honoring one of college basketball’s most revered programs, Duke University. As part of Nike’s ongoing Mamba Program, the Duke women’s basketball team has revealed a coveted Player Exclusive (PE) version of the Kobe 5 Protro, featuring the instantly recognizable Blue Devils color scheme.
This edition of the low-cut sneaker is a simple yet powerful design, perfectly fitted for away-game wear. It showcases a dark construction, with the toe, lace panels, and sock liner rendered in sleek black. The entire shoe is accented with a vibrant Varsity Royal blue, which is applied to the side panels and the toecap. The design’s contrast is completed with crisp white Swoosh logos and branded detailing on the tongue, creating a striking aesthetic that mirrors the team’s fierce identity.
The release is particularly significant as Kobe Bryant famously stated that if he had attended college, Duke would have been his choice. Now, the Kobe 5 Protro Duke PE stands as a testament to that affinity, continuing the tradition of the Mamba’s legacy within the program. While this specific PE is not slated for a public release, only revealed by the Women’s basketball team, it marks the latest in a series of highly desirable Duke-exclusive Kobes, cementing the shoe’s place in college basketball footwear lore. Take a look at the shoe above or below.
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