The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Draft Day” is rumored to return, celebrating Kobe Bryant's historic draft moment. Meanwhile, Jordan Brand is set to release the Air Jordan 11 “Bred Velvet” this holiday season, offering a luxurious take on the iconic Bred colorway with velvet materials.
Nike Revives Kobe 5 Protro 'Draft Day' to Honor Bryant's Iconic Trade and Draft History
One of the most intriguing "What If" scenarios in sports history is imagining what might have happened had Kobe Bryant never been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Charlotte Hornets, the team initially drafted him. That monumental trade reshaped the fates of both franchises, sending them down drastically different paths and cementing Kobe's legacy with the Lakers.
To commemorate that pivotal moment, Nike has periodically released the Kobe "Draft Day" series, featuring Kobe’s signature footwear in the Hornets’ colors of light blue, purple, and white. The series has always been a fan favorite, combining the significance of Bryant’s draft history with the appealing aesthetics of the Hornets’ color scheme. Although the releases have paused in recent years, the "Draft Day" editions remain highly sought after.
Initially released in May 2010, the Nike Kobe 5 "Draft Day" reportedly returns in Protro form. A leaked image suggests the shoe’s return, though it’s unclear whether it will hit stores later this year or around the 2025 NBA Draft, a fitting timeline given the sneaker’s historic ties.
Jordan Brand Unveils Air Jordan 11 'Bred Velvet' for 2024 Holiday Season with Luxurious Twist
Meanwhile, the Air Jordan 11 continues its reign as Jordan Brand's annual holiday staple, releasing consistently in coveted colorways at the end of each year. For the 2024 holiday season, Jordan Brand is bringing back classic looks, including the Jordan 11 Legend Blue (formerly known as "Columbia") and the highly anticipated Jordan 11 "Bred Velvet" for women.
First teased in December 2023, the Jordan 11 "Bred Velvet" delivers exactly what its name suggests. Using the iconic black, white, and "Varsity Red" color blocking of the original "Bred" design, this edition replaces the traditional patent leather, canvas, and mesh upper with a luxurious velvet material. Additional premium touches include a metallic red Jumpman logo on the heel, all-red tongue text, and red lace tips, giving the shoe a refined, elevated feel.
Though this isn't the first time Jordan Brand has reimagined original colorways with non-traditional materials—satin Jordan 1s for women come to mind—these releases still generate significant buzz. While some Jordan purists may long for a proper retro release, there's no denying the strong demand for non-traditional versions like the Bred Velvet.
According to Sneaker News, the Air Jordan 11 Bred Velvet is scheduled to drop on November 11th, 2024, in women’s sizes for $225. Check out the gallery below, and stay tuned to our Jordan Release Dates page as we track official images and potential early drops.


Locked up then locked out: how NZ’s bank rules make life for ex-prisoners even harder
Can your cat recognise you by scent? New study shows it’s likely
The Beauty Beneath the Expressway: A Journey from Self to Service
Columbia Student Mahmoud Khalil Fights Arrest as Deportation Case Moves to New Jersey
The American mass exodus to Canada amid Trump 2.0 has yet to materialize
Why a ‘rip-off’ degree might be worth the money after all – research study
Debate over H-1B visas shines spotlight on US tech worker shortages
Canada’s local food system faces major roadblocks without urgent policy changes
Glastonbury is as popular than ever, but complaints about the lineup reveal its generational challenge
Office design isn’t keeping up with post-COVID work styles - here’s what workers really want
What’s the difference between baking powder and baking soda? It’s subtle, but significant
Youth are charting new freshwater futures by learning from the water on the water
Why have so few atrocities ever been recognised as genocide?
Parents abused by their children often suffer in silence – specialist therapy is helping them find a voice
Why financial hardship is more likely if you’re disabled or sick 



