Kara Lawson Shows Off Nike Kobe 4 'Philly' Sneakers

Duke coach Kara Lawson debuted the Nike Kobe 4 Protro 'Philly' during practice on Saturday.

Earlier this fall, the Duke Blue Devils were selected as one of six Nike-sponsored basketball teams to earn the distinction of a "Mamba Program." The honor included player-exclusive gear, early access to unreleased sneakers, and eventually even logos embroidered on their uniforms. 

Of the six Mamba Programs, perhaps none better personifies Kobe Bryant's legendary commitment to excellence than Duke. Of course, Bryant bypassed college basketball to go straight to the NBA. But thanks to his iconic signature sneakers, Bryant's mark is being made in the NCAA. 

Before the Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team traveled to take on the Virginia Cavaliers today, they squeezed in one last practice on Friday night. Duke head coach Kara Lawson used it as an opportunity to debut the unreleased Nike Kobe 4 Protro in the 'Philly' colorway.

Kobe 4 Protro ‘Philly’ 💙❤️

Dropping Summer 2024 😎 pic.twitter.com/XDxJEosuHt

— Duke Women’s Basketball (@DukeWBB) January 6, 2024

The relationship between Bryant and his hometown of Philadelphia was complicated. Who can forget the 2002 NBA All-Star Game? However, that never stopped the hoops legend from proudly representing the City of Brotherly Love every chance he had - and that included his sneakers.

Originally released on January 1, 2009, the Nike Kobe 4 'Philly' paid tribute to Bryant's hometown with a patriotic red, white, and blue colorway. After 15 years, the sneakers are scheduled to make a comeback with a retro release in Summer 2024. 

With conference play underway, the college basketball season is hitting its stride, and so are all six of the Mamba Programs. The Final Four is just under three months away, so fans can expect a lot more heat from Nike. Stay locked into FanNationKicks.com for all your footwear news.

Nike Announces 6 NCAA Basketball Teams as "Mamba Programs"