Brunson’s Nike Kobe 5 ‘What The Rick’ PE Is a Heartfelt Tribute to His Dad

Jalen Brunson is on a tear right now. In Game 6 of the Knicks–Pistons first-round showdown, the New York guard iced the series with a jaw-dropping 40-piece and a cold-blooded dagger three with just seconds to spare. And while he didn't wear his newest heat in the closeout, the sneaker world is still buzzing about his latest flex: the Nike Kobe 5 Protro ‘What The Rick’ PE.

First seen earlier in the series, the PE is a heartfelt tribute to Jalen’s father, Rick Brunson, a former NBA journeyman and now a key member of the Knicks coaching staff. The colourway is a patchwork of team-inspired hues that salute every squad Rick suited up for during his playing career. From Portland and New York to Chicago and Boston, the PE paints a vivid picture of a basketball legacy passed from one generation to the next. The design carries the bold ‘What The’ treatment Kobe models are known for – mismatched panels, a wild mix of colours, and layered storytelling.

Of course, this isn't Brunson's first foray into elite Kobe territory. Over the past two seasons, he’s built a reputation for breaking out mind-blowing heat from the Mamba vault. From the Joker-inspired Kobe 5 PE to rare Protro colourways like the ‘Del Sol’ and ‘Bruce Lee’, Brunson’s sneaker game is just as sharp as his jumper.

For more Brunson PE heat, make sure to check out his Kobe 4 plucked straight from the Villanova trophy case!