One of the many sneakers Ja Morant rocked during his rookie year was the Nike Kobe 4 Protro.
The Nike Kobe 4 originally released for the Black Mamba’s 2008-09 season and was revolutionary for it’s low-cut design. This was a direct request from Kobe Bryant, who saw how soccer players played faster with a lower-cut boot. The Kobe 4s worn by Luka were a “Protro” version, which slimmed the heel shape and increased the range of the traction. The heel Zoom Air and soft phylon foam remained in the cushioning, providing lightweight bounce when landing on the heel. The upper features synthetic leather uppers, with Flywire panels in the midfoot for added lockdown.
Like many other Nike Basketball guards during the 2019-20 season, Ja rocked player exclusive colorways that never released.
You can find the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 at StockX, GOAT, Stadium Goods, and Flight Club.
Cover image via CBS Sports
