Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro "EYBL"

TLDR: The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro “EYBL” is an exclusive Player Edition created for athletes competing in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League. The sneaker was distributed through the EYBL programme in 2025 and did not receive a standard retail release.

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The Nike Elite Youth Basketball League brings together some of the best young basketball players in the United States. Nike regularly supplies selected athletes with exclusive colourways, with the Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro forming part of the programme’s footwear line-up for the 2025 season.

The Flyknit upper is completely covered in vibrant Racer Blue, providing a lightweight and close-fitting construction. Metallic Silver Swooshes stand out against the blue base. An iridescent finish transforms the black tongue, which is completed with Kobe’s signature and Sheath logo.

Nine alternating turquoise and peach markings decorate the heel. They reference the Kobe 9’s model number and introduce a colourful finish to the otherwise restrained design. A white midsole and black rubber outsole provide clean contrast beneath the blue upper.

The Protro update combines the familiar Flyknit construction with a removable React foam midsole. A carbon-fibre plate provides lateral stability, whilst multidirectional tread and additional traction blades along the medial side are designed to deliver grip during quick cuts.

Marketplace listings cite July 20th, 2025, as the distribution date and 200€ as a reference retail price. However, this was not a conventional launch: the sneaker was produced as a Player Exclusive for EYBL athletes and did not release through Nike SNKRS.

As Nike did not hold a public retail release, the sneaker is only available through resale platforms and private sellers. Should the colourway eventually receive a wider launch, Grailify will keep you updated with every confirmed retailer and release detail. 😉