Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “Thunder Blue” Continues Mamba Legacy Into Spring 2026

Nike’s presence in Los Angeles for NBA All-Star Weekend served as a powerful reminder of the brand’s ongoing commitment to Kobe Bryant’s legacy. From exclusive player exclusives to murals and community-driven activations, the Mamba’s signature line remained front and center. Now, that momentum carries forward with the upcoming Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “Thunder Blue,” another key chapter in the post-retro revival of one of Kobe’s most respected on-court models.

The Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “Thunder Blue” pairs its namesake deep blue heel counters with sharp Laser Orange accents throughout. Engineered Mesh construction returns in a Daybreak purple, offering the same lightweight, breathable setup that defined the original EM iterations. Laser Orange eyelets and Swoosh detailing cut through the cooler base tones, while subtle purple layering adds dimension without overwhelming the design.

Performance tooling remains consistent with the original blueprint. The low-profile midsole and anatomical outsole continue to deliver responsive court feel, one of the Kobe 9’s defining traits. A sculpted heel counter and streamlined padding preserve lockdown and stability, reinforcing why the Nike Kobe 9 Low EM remains a favorite among guards and quick-twitch players.

The Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “Thunder Blue” fits squarely into Nike Basketball’s broader effort to reestablish Kobe-era performance silhouettes for a new generation - including an expansion on its accessibility.

The Kobe line, and the Nike Basketball line as a whole, arguably haven't been this popular since Kobe's heyday in the mid-2010s where Nike Basketball - and Kobe Bryant - regined supreme over the league.

The Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “Thunder Blue” is expected to release in Spring 2026. Specific launch details have yet to be confirmed, but updates should follow as Nike’s seasonal Kobe lineup continues to unfold.

In other Nike, Inc. news, the Air Jordan 7 "Miro" is expected to return this Summer.