Nike has made sparing use of the Grinch theme debuted by Kobe Bryant for his Christmas game in 2010, as the original colorway has released once each on the Kobe 6 and Kobe 6 Protro and a “Reverse Grinch” edition of the latter dropped in 2023. And while it isn’t confirmed yet, it appears the original treatment will come to an entirely new model for the first time.
The Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” has leaked via the European retailer Basket 4 Ballers, and the nickname has been applied unofficially because of the strong resemblance to its source material. Neon green is applied to the majority of the upper, while the heel and sole unit arrive in teal. The latter element bleeds into colorless translucence at the forefoot, and the branding elements alternate between the two shades of green. One of the laces arrives in a pinkish-red for yet another “Grinch” connection.
Even if the idea wasn’t expressly to create another Kobe “Grinch” sneaker, the similarities should help drive appeal for the forthcoming release. After all, the Kobe 6s are among some of the most fabled of all of Bryant’s sneakers and continued to be worn in the Protro edition on NBA courts on a regular basis.
Just this week, Nike unveiled the latest of Bryant’s sneakers to get a remastering with the Kobe 10 Protro. Launching in an all-white “Halo” colorway this month, the sneaker features Cushlon 3.0 foam in place of Lunarlon and a switch from a heel Air Zoom unit to a full-length Air Zoom strobel. The upper has also been improved with a redesigned engineered mesh that Nike says will be more breathable and flexible.
The Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” will release some time in September, likely through the Snkrs app and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $190.
Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” (pair)
Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” (lateral)
Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” (above)
Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” (heel)
Nike Kobe 3 Protro “Grinch” (outsole)