Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Wizenard" Is Inspired by Kobe Bryant's First Novel

Since retiring from the NBA in 2016, Los Angeles Lakers great Kobe Bryant has tried his hand at several other endeavors, one of which — assisting with novels for young adults — has provided inspiration for Nike‘s Kobe 4 Protro “Wizenard.” Bryant’s New York Times-bestselling book series is based around the transformative power of basketball and mixes fantasy with reality, so this rework of an influential Nike Basketball silhouette provides a colorful, whimsical look.

The upper takes the Wizenard series’ signature swirling motifs, covering the stark synthetic black upper. A bright volt yellow is used in abundance, but blue and red tones are present as well, making for a striking three-color combination that demands attention. Some semblance of normalcy is provided by the black mesh throat and the black leather tongue, which features Kobe’s signature sheath logo in bright blue.

The heel clip keeps things tonal with an all-black construction and debossed #24 hit, while the midsole features Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and is split between black and semi-translucent neon yellow. Down below, the herringbone outsole combines all three accent colors from the upper and introduces a dash of teal to complete the look.

Bryant and Nike’s latest Kobe 4 Protro is set to drop on November 23 at Nike SNKRS Japan, and may arrive Stateside shortly thereafter. The retail price is set at ¥19,800 JPY (approximately $182 USD).

In other Swoosh news, Nike Sportswear and A Ma Maniére are dropping limited-edition takes on the Air Force 1.