Performance basketball release
Nike Kobe 3 Protro Orca
- Release date
- 26 September 2026
First released in early 2008, the Nike Kobe 3 “Orca” arrived during one of the defining chapters of Kobe Bryant’s career.
Kobe wore the Kobe 3 throughout his legendary 2007–08 campaign, capturing his only regular-season MVP award, earning First-Team All-NBA and First-Team All-Defensive honours, and leading the Los Angeles Lakers back to the NBA Finals.
Designed by Eric Avar, the Kobe 3 stood apart from everything else on the court. Its striped TPU cage was inspired by basketball netting, while the diamond-shaped details paid tribute to Kobe’s daughter Natalia, whose middle name is Diamanté.
The original “Orca” colourway matched that fearless design with a stealthy black upper, a contrasting white Swoosh wrapping around the heel, and subtle touches of Varsity Maize, silver and anthracite.
Now, the icon returns in Protro form—preserving its unmistakable look while upgrading it for the modern game. A full-length Air Zoom Strobel and Cushlon 3.0 midsole provide improved responsiveness and energy return, while breathable mesh, added tongue padding and reworked traction deliver greater comfort, grip and court feel.
More than a retro release, the Kobe 3 Protro “Orca” brings back a piece of basketball history from the season Kobe stood at the top of the game.
