The Kobe Bryant Air Jordan 9 Retro Won't Have His Number On the Heel

Not exactly like the PE.

Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro
Image via iamchickenwop
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro

Rumor has it Kobe Bryant's Air Jordan 9 player exclusive will get a retail release this year.

According to ajordanxi, the sneaker will release in November with the same combination of purple patent, white leather and yellow accents featured on Bryant's own pairs. It's unclear if the shoe will stick with the original's #8 embroidery on the back.

Frequent leaker @baltsneakershow has also hinted at this PE releasing, adding credence to the possibility of its return.

There's still no firm release info on the pack of Kobe Jordan 3s and Jordan 8s, which was rumored to release in February.

UPDATE 7/9: Another look at the "Kobe" Air Jordan 9 Retro, which unfortunately won't feature Bryant's PE-style number "8" on the heel if this is indeed the final version. More on this release as new information becomes available.

Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (2)
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (3)
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (4)
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (5)

UPDATE 7/7: Images of what's believed to be this year's "Kobe" Air Jordan 9 Retro via @iamchickenwop.

Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (2)
Kobe Air Jordan IX 9 2016 Retro (3)