Nike unveils Caitlin Clark Kobe 5 Protro PE for Fever fans in 2025

Nike is releasing a special edition Kobe 5 “Protro” PE for Caitlin Clark fans inspired by her play with the Indiana Fever.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark has been dazzling WNBA fans for more than a year, and her popularity continues to soar. Yet, despite her global stardom and millions of dedicated followers, Clark’s first signature shoe is still a closely guarded secret. In the meantime, Nike is giving fans something special to celebrate: the release of Clark’s Kobe 5 “Protro” PE, a player-exclusive colorway that’s about to become a collector’s item.

The Anticipated Nike Kobe 5 “Protro” PE Release

Nike has announced that Clark’s Kobe 5 “Protro” PE—featuring a striking navy, red, and gold color scheme inspired by the Indiana Fever—will be available to the public for a limited time. The release is set for 10 a.m. ET on Monday, June 30, exclusively on the SNKRS app. Retailing at $190, these sneakers are expected to sell out in minutes, following the trend of high-profile Nike drops.

This release is particularly exciting for fans who have watched Clark consistently wear both Kobe 5s and 6s on the court. Nike Basketball has frequently outfitted her with player-exclusive colorways, but this is the first time one of her PEs will be available to the public. The design features “Midnight Navy, Crimson, touches of University Gold, and finished with a high-gloss coating that shines under bright lights,” according to Nike.

Clark’s Connection to Kobe Bryant’s Legacy

Caitlin Clark’s admiration for Kobe Bryant is no secret. Last season, she shared her thoughts on wearing Kobe’s iconic shoes:

Caitlin Clark said: “I'm a Kobe person. Everybody knows that. It’s the best shoe. It's not even close. I probably like the Kobe 6s the best, which are the ones I have on right now. I like the 5s as well, but the 6s are kind of my thing.

“So, obviously, just to wear his shoe and obviously what (his wife) Vanessa has done and their family has done. And continuing his legacy, not only obviously within his shoe, but just that whole foundation and just the Kobe brand is pretty incredible. So, I feel very lucky and fortunate to not only represent Nike, but also their entire family.”

Nike’s campaign for the release even highlights Clark’s competitive spirit and her reverence for Kobe’s “Black Mamba” mentality. In a recent advertisement, Clark is shown in a locker room, eyes closed in meditation. When she opens them, her pupils morph into a snake-like shape—a subtle but powerful nod to Kobe’s legendary persona.

The Wait for a Signature Shoe Continues

While fans are thrilled about the Kobe 5 “Protro” PE release, the question on everyone’s mind remains: when will Caitlin Clark get her own signature shoe? Clark remains tight-lipped about any upcoming announcements:

Caitlin Clark said: “Nike's been a tremendous partner and was a partner of mine through college. And deciding what I wanted to do professionally — that's just the brand that I always wore as a kid. So being able to be with them is a dream and something I don't take lightly.

“And I'm not giving any teasers (for a signature shoe), though. Like, I don't do that. So, wait and see.”

You can read more about Clark’s partnership with Nike and her signature shoe anticipation on USA Today.

Conclusion: A Special Moment for Fans

For now, Caitlin Clark’s fans will have to settle for her exclusive Kobe PEs, but the excitement surrounding her first signature shoe continues to build. The release of the Kobe 5 “Protro” PE is not just a celebration of Clark’s on-court achievements, but also a reflection of her connection with Kobe Bryant’s enduring legacy. As the world waits for the next big announcement, one thing is certain: Caitlin Clark’s impact on basketball—and sneaker culture—is just getting started.