The Nike Kobe 5 Protro "What The Rick" releases Summer 2027 for $200. It's set to launch through SNKRS and select Nike Basketball retailers. The style code is JA7364-800.
This marks Jalen Brunson's second Kobe 5 release and his fourth PE overall to get a wider launch. The colorway is officially listed as Total Orange, Black, and Hyper Cobalt. Unlike most "What The" Kobe releases, this one keeps a symmetrical design instead of mismatching the left and right shoes.
Brunson first debuted the pair on April 24, 2025, during Game 3 of New York's first-round playoff series against Detroit. Rick Brunson, Jalen's father, played 9 seasons in the NBA before moving into coaching. He now serves as an assistant coach with the Knicks.
Each panel on the shoe ties back to a team Rick suited up for during his playing career. That list includes Portland, New York, Boston, Chicago, Toronto, the Clippers, Seattle, and Houston. The Knicks connection stands out the most, with blue and orange taking over much of the forefoot and side panels.
An earlier release in New York City is expected before the wider national launch happens.
Jalen Brunson x Nike Kobe 5 Protro "What The Rick"
Brunson has built a reputation over the past two seasons for rolling out standout Kobe PEs. Past examples include a Joker-inspired colorway and rare Protro pairs like "Del Sol" and "Bruce Lee." Turning one of these personal tributes into an actual retail release is a rare move for Nike's Kobe line.
Nike has leaned hard into Knicks-related sneaker activations since the team's championship run. A previously New York City-exclusive Air Force 1 in Knicks colors is also expected to get a wider release soon. Bringing "What The Rick" to retail fits right into that same momentum.
Brunson has become one of the most visible faces of Nike's Kobe Brand today. Getting a personal, family-driven design like this turned into a public release says a lot about how much the brand values that connection. For Knicks fans and Kobe collectors alike, this is shaping up as one of the more meaningful releases of 2027.
