The sneaker worn by Kobe Bryant in his final game is being re-released by Nike

April 13 is a date that is forever stitched into the hardwood mythology of the Los Angeles Lakers.

On that date ten years ago, Kobe Bryant walked off an NBA floor for the final time after scoring an unprecedented 60 points. It was a final act that felt less like basketball and more like a Hollywood script.

His final words, “Mamba Out,” and just like that, the game of basketball exhaled.

Now, nearly a decade later, Nike is reaching into that eternal moment and bringing it back into the light.

The Kobe 11 Proto “Fade to Black” — the final chapter of Bryant’s farewell sneaker series — is returning to shelves.

Back in 2016, Nike’s “Fade to Black” collection told the story of Bryant’s retirement tour. 13 silhouettes, each pair of shoes darker than the last, like a sun setting on a career that redefined obsession. The final pair of that collection was the all-black Kobe 11.

The 2026 re-release comes with subtle changes. A “2026” tucked beneath the tongue. The date 4.13.26 on the back heel. The Roman numeral X etched into the design. Yes, it represents ten years, but it’s also ten reminders that greatness never fades to black, it lingers forever.

Nike hasn’t released any official information regarding the release, but the sneakers are expected to drop on Apr 13, 2026.

Nike also announced that the Nike Kobe 11 ‘Mamba Day’ sneakers that debuted on August, 24, 2025 will be re-released on the same day as the new commemorative “Fade to Black” sneakers.

Leaked images of the new design are below.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters