Kobe’s Oscar Win Might be the Inspiration for the 2025 Nike Kobe 5 Protro

Nike Kobe 5 Protro University Red

Nike Kobe 5 Protro University Red | Image (mock-up): Sole Retriever

Could 2025 be the peak year for the Nike Kobe 5? It remains too premature to determine, yet recent advancements indicate that the Mamba’s fifth unique design will assume a significant role in the brand’s basketball lineup next year.

Just recently, we discussed news regarding an upcoming “Eggplant” color scheme, and now the reveal of a “University Red” edition set to debut in Spring 2025 has us excited, especially since it could potentially be linked to one of Kobe’s most gratifying accolades away from the basketball court.

As of now, details are limited about the sneaker beyond its planned release window, pricing ($190 for adult, $120 for GS according to Sole Retriever), and color scheme of “University Red/Black/Metallic Gold,” although the final design could take various forms.

A mock-up by Sole Retriever offers an informed forecast based on previous Kobe 5 variations.

Nike Kobe 5 Protro University Red
Nike Kobe 5 Protro University Red | Image mock up Sole Retriever

Given the slated Spring 2025 release, there is a chance that they may align with the Academy Awards in March of that year. For those unfamiliar, Kobe secured an Oscar for Best Animated Short Film in 2018 for his work on “Dear Basketball.” The chosen color scheme certainly complements a red carpet theme, particularly matching the top image of Kobe, alongside his wife Vanessa, proudly holding the Oscar trophy.

Additional insights from the creative minds in Beaverton will likely illuminate all speculation as we approach the launch date.

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    Official Release Date for the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    The Boston Celtics’ season is unfolding just as they had envisioned, with only one loss to report and a striking 30 points per game average from their star player, Jayson Tatum.

    After a more eventful off-season than what championship teams typically endure, Tatum and his Boston teammates have skillfully tuned out distractions, staying focused on their goal of repeating their success early in the season. In line with this theme, the upcoming #0 Jordan Tatum 3 is about to launch a “Zen” colorway that embodies this same sense of tranquility.

    The motif of serenity has been a consistent element in Jayson Tatum’s sneaker line, especially highlighted by the “Vortex” version of the Tatum 2, which explicitly connects to this theme: our previous coverage noted that the design reflects Tatum’s calm demeanor, reminiscent of the peacefulness found in a vortex above water.

    While this new model opts for a more subdued color palette, its execution remains true to that original concept; the graceful cut-outs in the upper design resemble calm waters, serving as a guiding inspiration throughout Tatum’s signature collection.

    As mentioned earlier, the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” is set to launch on November 14th via Nike.com, available in sizes for the whole family. The adult versions will be priced at $125.

    For a closer look at this appealing colorway, check out the official images below, and make sure to keep an eye on our Sneakers page for updates.


    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    SKU: FZ6598-001

    RETAIL PRICE: $125

    RELEASE DATE: Nov 14, 2024

    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” (Images via: Nike)

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    Jason Kelce’s Field Goal Attempt In Timberlands Will End In A $100,000 Donation

    This Saturday, November 2nd, Jason Kelce will take on a field goal challenge while wearing Wheat Timbs during the ESPN College GameDay broadcast of the highly anticipated Penn State vs. Ohio State matchup. The idea for this challenge originated when college student Daniel Villasenor successfully kicked a field goal in Vans checkerboard slip-ons, winning an impressive $100,000 earlier in October.

    Initially discussed on the Kelce brothers’ New Heights podcast with special guest Pat McAfee, this lighthearted challenge quickly evolved into a real event. The NFL legend, Jason Kelce, is set to attempt scoring three points while donning the famous Wheat Timberlands.

    In an exciting twist, VF Corp — the parent company of both Vans and Timberland — has stepped in with a generous $100,000 commitment to the charity Soles4Souls, aimed at supporting hurricane relief efforts. Fortunately for Jason, VF Corp has assured that the funds will be donated regardless of whether his kick is successful or not.

    Make sure to tune in to ESPN College GameDay on November 2nd, 2024, to witness this unique field goal attempt for yourself!

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    Notre and Vans Collaborate For the Rowley XLT “Linen”

    NOTRE-NOV-15-1200x675jpg

    NOTRE-NOV-15-1200x675jpg

    The highly anticipated Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” is set to drop on November 15, 2024, exclusively at Notre and its flagship location.

    Be sure to check HQZ’s Sneakers page to stay updated on the latest happenings and drops in the sneaker world.


    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Colorway: Linen/Silver
    Style #: VN000D1GDPB1
    Release Date: November 15, 2024
    Price: $165

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” VN000D1GDPB1 (Images via: @oscar_castillo/Instagram)

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