Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” Releases Summer 2027
What to know
ClosetKept AI- Tribute to Rick Brunson, Jalen Brunson's father and Knicks assistant coach.
- Design incorporates eight NBA franchises Rick Brunson played for during career.
- Knicks blue and orange dominate forefoot and quarter panels.
- Fourth Jalen Brunson Kobe PE to receive wider general release.
- Expected Summer 2027 release following initial court debut April 2025.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” is expected to reach general release in Summer 2027. Jalen Brunson, captain of the New York Knicks and the most prominent face of the Kobe Bryant line today, first wore the pair on court during Game 3 of New York’s 2025 first round playoff series against the Detroit Pistons on April 24th. The colorway is a personal tribute to Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson, his longtime mentor and a Knicks assistant coach.
Rick Brunson spent nine seasons as an NBA journeyman, and his son has credited the demanding training routine his father built since childhood with instilling the work ethic behind New York’s run to its first championship in half a century this past summer. The “What The Rick” is Brunson’s second Kobe 5 Protro colorway and the fourth of his Kobe player exclusives to get a wider launch, following pairs like his Kobe 6 Protro “Statue of Liberty” PE. It lands during a busy stretch for the line, with the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Dodgers” also on the calendar and the Kobe 8 “MambaCurial” returning in Protro form. JustFreshKicks will have more images and confirmed dates as they surface.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” Design
Design wise, the “What The Rick” is a “What The” style mashup built around the eight NBA franchises Rick Brunson suited up for across his career: the Portland Trail Blazers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Clippers, Seattle SuperSonics, and Houston Rockets. The Knicks take the lead role, with the team’s signature blue and orange covering the forefoot and quarter panels.
Why Is The Nike Kobe 5 Protro Called “What The Rick”?
It’s named for Jalen Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson, and blends the eight NBA franchises he played for over his nine year career, with the Knicks’ blue and orange leading the design.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” Release Information
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” is expected to release in Summer 2027, likely sometime between April and June, at a retail price of $200. It is currently listed as a standard release on Nike SNKRS, and early access along with New York City activations could arrive ahead of the wider launch.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick”
Color: Multicolor team mashup (Knicks blue and orange featured on forefoot and quarter)
Style Code: JA7364-800
Release Date: Summer 2027
Price: $200
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” release?It’s expected in Summer 2027, likely sometime between April and June.
How much does the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick” cost?It retails for $200.
Where can I buy the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “What The Rick”?It’s set to release as a standard drop on Nike SNKRS.
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Images via @jalenbrunson1, @nyknicks
