Caitlin Clark’s Kobe 5 Protro ‘Rookie of the Year’ PE Goes Public
Caitlin Clark’s Kobe 5 Protro ‘Rookie of the Year’ started life as a player exclusive, but it won’t be locked away for long. According to on X, it looks like the metallic stunner will make the jump from Clark’s personal rotation to retail shelves in 2026.
Clark first broke out the PE during the Indiana Fever’s season opener, lacing up a shimmering silver build punched up with vivid ‘University Red’ hits across the Swoosh, lacing system, tongue, and outsole. The colourway draws a direct line to the uniform she wore when hoisting the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year trophy.
The drop slots into a bigger picture for Clark’s Nike journey. She signed an eight-year, $28 million endorsement deal in 2024, and while her first official signature shoe is still in the works, her personal logo is expected to debut later this year.
When the Nike Kobe 5 debuted in 2009, it flipped basketball design on its head – opting for a low-cut, soccer boot-inspired silhouette that prioritised speed and agility. Kobe wore the model during the Lakers’ 2009–10 championship run, forever linking it to winning pedigree. The modern Protro edition stays true to that DNA while adding today’s tech for an even sharper edge.
Originally thought to be a true one-off, Caitlin Clark’s Kobe 5 Protro ‘Rookie of the Year’ will now release for around $190 in adult sizing via Nike SNKRS and select retailers.
Want more Mamba heat? Check out the full lineup of Kobe drops landing in 2025.
