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Source: RTG Productions / Sean Menard Productions
Outside of a few big time collaborations between brands and celebrities, the hype behind the sneaker game is all but dead and while sneaker aficionados are enjoying being able to finally get pairs of their favorite grails without having to deal with hype beasts and greedy resellers, a new film explores how a few sports marketing teams helped sports footwear became a billion dollar industry.
According to Deadline, a new docuseries dubbed The Sneaker Boom will be exploring how up and coming NBA stars and marketing execs at sneaker brands helped turn a once struggling apparel market into a multi-billion dollar movement that impacted the street culture worldwide and turned helped turn NBA stars into household names at a time when Michael Jordan was dominating all facets of the game.
Source: RTG Productions / Sean Menard Productions
Brought to us courtesy of Sean Menard, the five-episode docuseries follows the maverick marketing and advertising execs who rolled the dice on NBA rookies who seemed bound to make an impact on the NBA such as Allen “The Answer” Iverson, Grant Hill, Larry “Grandmama” Johnson and Afernee “Penny” Hardaway. While none of these men were able to hoist an Larry O’Brien trophy mainly due to one Michael “Air” Jordan, they’re sneaker lines were huge hits and actually able to stand the test of time, and now we’ll be seeing how exactly marketing execs made that happen.
Per Deadline:
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Original interviews and never-seen-before archive footage build the picture, while the title sequence was created by a team of miniature artists, who also created era-accurate boardrooms where brands competed to sign future NBA stars to multi-million dollar contracts.
“We’re thrilled to finally share this series with audiences – starting with my home country of Canada,” said Menard. “Shining a light on the pioneers behind these iconic athletes will hopefully inspire a whole new generation, while offering long-time fans a fresh and nostalgic look at a magical era in sports and culture.”
We wonder if this series will help conjure up interest in their retro sneakers. Sure couldn’t hurt.
Check out the trailer for The Sneaker Boom below and let us know if you’ll be checking it out on the Canadian streaming service Crave this weekend.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The final season of Stranger Things premieres on Netflix on November 26 and the hit sci-fi series is teaming up with a number of fashion and lifestyle brands to mark the occasion.
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GAP just unveiled a retro-themed Stranger Things collection with 80s-inspired denim, T-shirts and sweats, while footwear brand Aldo debuted a collection of whimsical Stranger Things shoes and bags earlier this fall. But perhaps the buzziest release was the latest collaboration between Nike and Netflix, with the Stranger Things x Nike Dunk Low sneaker, which dropped November 6.
The sneakers, which retailed for $155, quickly sold out on the Nike site and they are only available now on resale sites like Stockx, as of this writing.
Nike Dunk Low x “Stranger Things”
The distressed navy and white sneakers are the latest release in the Nike x Stranger Things collab, which was first introduced in 2019, and included footwear and apparel inspired by the show (previous models in the collaboration are also available starting from $115 on StockX.com).
Though the Stranger Things Dunk Low is no longer available on the Nike site, fans can still pick up a couple of new pieces in stock from the collaboration. One of them is this Caitlin Clark Indiana Fever jersey, re-worked with a Stranger Things-inspired twist.
Caitlin Clark Indiana Fever x ‘Stranger Things’ 2025 Rebel Edition
The Fever’s normal red, gold and blue jersey is re-imagined in the red, white and black colorway of the new Stranger Things season, and nods to the show run throughout the piece, from claw marks from the demogorgons in the Upside Down, to 80s-style red splatter paint detailing. The Caitlin Clark Stranger Things jersey is available in sizes XS to XXL.
Another official piece in the Nike x Stranger Things collection is this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, which features a slightly oversized fit and a cozy brushed fleece construction. The navy sweatshirt features the phrase “Friends Don’t Lie,” one of Eleven’s (Millie Bobby Brown) most iconic lines from the show. The caption “All Strangers Welcome” sits below the main graphic.
Nike x ‘Stranger Things’ Fleece Crew
The back of the unisex sweatshirt features large Nike lettering running from shoulder to shoulder.
Looking for more Stranger Things-inspired pieces from Nike? We like this New York Knicks “Halloween” T-shirt, which applies the same eerie vibe of Stranger Things to the Knicks basketball logo. Though it’s branded as a “Halloween” tee, this is a shirt you can really wear year-round. The lived-in look and feel, and relaxed fit, adds to the vintage appeal.
Nike Knicks Halloween NBA Max90 T-Shirt
This unisex tee is available in sizes small to 3XL. Nike also sells a similar T-shirt style for the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors.
And you can keep the 80s vibes going with this vintage-inspired Jordan Brooklyn tee, which features a stylized graphic of Michael Jordan slam dunking a basketball, along with the year 1985 etched in bright orange letters, marking the year the NBA star broke into the league.
Jordan Brooklyn Oversized Graphic T-Shirt
$45
Buy Now AT NIKE
The front of the T-shirt features the same Jordan and net and backboard graphic, along with an orange Air Jordan logo. Pick this up in sizes XS to 3XL.
The final season of Stranger Things premieres with the first four episodes out on November 26, followed by three episodes on Christmas Day.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
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With the 2025-26 NBA season in full swing and Halloween right around the corner, Nike is entering spooky season with holiday-themed basketball sneakers worth adding to your collection. From “Slim Reaper” KD18’s to a “Candy Corn Queen” A’One shoe, the brands most popular styles are receiving a fun, fright night makeover. Shop our five favorite Halloween-themed Nike basketball sneakers below.
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KD18 “Slim Reaper” Basketball Shoes
Starting off with the KD18’s, the signature basketball shoe for Kevin Durant, gets a Slim Reaper transformation inspired by the hoopers intimidating and unstoppable offensive presence that “defenders never see it coming,” according to Nike. The silhouette features a glow-in-the-dark outsole and a striking, slender skeleton hand design across the midfoot cage. If you’re looking to put fear in the heart of your opponent, grab of these special-edition KD18’s below for $170.
Nike
Ja 3 “Spooky Season” Basketball Shoes
It’s scary times when you see Ja Morant charing full speed at you on the court. In honor of his ghostly quickness and bone-chilling bounce when attempting one of his viral posterizing dunks, Nike has kitted out the Ja 3 with a “spooky season” colorway. This special Halloween themed design features a zombie-esque aesthetic with a striking green and lemon yellow pairing and an eye-catching vertical red Swoosh logo next to a graffiti-sprayed “A”—and grimy scratch marks as a final touch. Go full zombie mode on the hardwood with the Nike Ja 3 Halloween.
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A’One “Candy Corn Queen” Basketball Shoes
Whether you love or hate candy corn, you can’t deny that this special edition colorway is a sweet treat for Halloween. Dubbed “Candy Corn Queen,” 4x WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson’s signature shoe includes a vibrant safety orange and chrome yellow gradient that pops across a midsole resembling candy-like textures. If you have a sweet tooth, these Nike’s will satisfy your craving.
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Book 1 “Scorpion” Basketball Shoes
The freaks come out at night, especially with latest Book 1 Halloween colorway. What may look like a sleek and minimal design with the light on, in the dark (or with a UV light) fans will notice creepy crawlers riddled all over the sneaker. There’s also a glow-in-the-dark outsole to add even more spooky elements. Devin Booker’s signature shoe receives a black-rainbow leather upper comes with a printed scorpion pattern hidden in plain sight.
Nike
G.T. Hustle 3 “Haunted Heights” Basketball Shoes
“Haunting Heights” is a fitting name for the 7’5 superstar Victor Wembanyama. The tallest guy on the court is also a guy who can do everything. From dribbling, shooting, to blocking shots and defending, there’s nothing this San Antonio Spur can’t do. Coaches must lie awake at night haunted by trying plan schemes to stop Wemby. His Halloween-themed basketball shoe features a fiery orange tint with flame-motifs throughout.
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Justine Skye is having a major moment this year. The “In My Bag” singer just began her new music era, kicking off this year with a new sound and label — Warner Records, to be exact. Now she’s entering this new phase stylishly, thanks to her latest collaboration with Nike Sportswear.
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The collection is comprised of neutrals and neon jackets, sports bras, sweat sets and yoga-esque tops, with a focus on Nike’s Air Max Dn8 in three new colorways. The women’s sneaker was revamped in Skye’s image, imbued with her effortless style and swagger. Each piece is representative of the performer’s own style, carefully cultivated to mix fashion with function. Simply put, this isn’t your mama’s athletic wear. In honor of Skye’s new chapter, we’ve picked a few favorites from her Nike collab that we’re sure you’ll be obsessed with.
Nike Sportswear Windrunner Storm-FIT ADV Oversized Trench Coat
A lengthy black Nike-branded trench coat.
Trench coats are an effortlessly classic silhouette. They’re a staple in many people’s closets, and for good reason. We love this one from Nike Sportswear because it’s built to last thanks to its storm-FIT ADV tech that helps keep you dry, even in the worst weather. The oversized fit is a nice plus, creating a boxy shape that’s angular so you won’t look like you’re swimming in fabric.
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This style is made of 80% nylon and 20% spandex. It’s windproof and ultra-warm, equipped with utilitarian details such as ample pockets for all your carrying needs. Styling options are endless with this trench thanks to the two-way metal zipper and snap closures that let you situate the outerwear as you please. Finally, subtle Nike logo detailing embroidered into the fabric offers the trench an instantly recognizable feel that’s not logo-heavy. The hood is also detachable, letting you customize your look even more. We can envision this piece paired with barrel jeans and a cable knit sweater for those colder days. Or swap the sweater out for your favorite cropped tank. The styling options are endless.
Nike Sportswear Women’s Mid-Rise Loose Woven Open-Hem Pants
Mid-rise joggers in gray with neon accents.
Retailing for $90, these mid-rise pants are a statement maker. Made of 100% nylon, they boast an effortlessly baggy fit with paneling and sewn-on neon tape that offers dimension to your look. Drawcords attached at the ankles allow versatility, meaning you can play with the proportions of your pants as you see fit.
The elastic waistband is equipped with drawcords to tighten or let loose, while Nike graphics add character and endless swagger. You’d be remiss to style these plainly. Go big with other neon-accented pieces such as sports bras or a cropped hoodie. Play with your silhouette by working smaller on the top to counteract the bagginess of the pants.
Nike Sportswear Women’s Short-Sleeve Ringer T-Shirt
A white and red retro-inspired baby tee.
There’s something so retro about this Ringer tee. It’s giving Napoleon Dynamite in the best way. The cropped fit and bright red trim nicely contrast the white base while complementing red Nike graphics offering the otherwise plain silhouette some character.
Sizing options range from XS to XXL. This tee reminds us of a standard gym uniform, but way cooler. The sporty silhouette would pair well with other sporty pieces such as biker shorts or baggy nylon trousers in neutral tones. Or go the less athletic route in denim jorts and sneakers, or a lacy maxiskirt and rugged biker boots to create juxtaposition. The world is your oyster with this one.
Nike Zenvy Women’s Dri-FIT Long-Sleeve Shrug Top
A long-sleeve black shrug made of sustainable material.
This shrug top is a Pilate girl’s dream. Retailing for $55, the style is equipped with long sleeves and a high cut that sits just above the chest. You’ll be the envy of your next hot yoga class in this, especially worn with a complimentary black jumpsuit.
Thumbholes featured on each sleeve give the shrug oodles of character. The key to this piece’s success is the fabric. Nike’s patented InfinaSoft material works with the body’s movement. It’s plush and extra-soft, moving as you move through every child’s pose or downward dog. This shrug is also made with Nike’s Dri-FIT tech that’s sweat-wicking, leaving you nice and dry even through your toughest workouts.
Nike Air Max Dn8 Women’s Shoes
Rose gold sneakers in a sleek low-profile style.
Low profile but high impact, these Nike Air Max Dn8 sneakers are a winner. Retailing for $200, these kicks come in three new colorways including a monochrome white and silver. Our favorite is the Metallic Red Bronze/Particle Beige/Hemp/Black, a rose gold hue that can be styled in a slew of ways. It’s all about Nike’s Dynamic Air system with this style.
Eight pressurized Air tubes give the sneaker a responsive bounce with every step, making you feel like you’re walking on air. Each tube is fixed with dual chambers with tuned pressure levels. The airflow shifts within each set of tubes in response to compression, providing a unique cushioning experience. The sculpted uppers are made of breathable mesh while the plastic tips at the heel keep the foot in place. The shoe features a unique slashed design on the uppers that reveals more mesh detailing. Thanks to all these details, the Air Max Dn8 is a piece we can see being worn and re-worn time and time again.
Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece Women’s Slim Maxi Tank Dress
A maxi-length light gray mock-neck dress with a slim fit.
Insanely stylish with little to no effort, this Nike Sportswear Tech Fleece Maxi Tank Dress is one of those pieces you can just throw on and look great immediately. Key details include a modern mock neckline and that sleek slim fit that flatters and streamlines almost every figure.
The dress is made of light gray fleece that is smooth both inside and out, keeping the wearer warm. Finally, a slit on the side offers the wearer ample movement and a little bit of drama. Said slit can be adjusted thanks to a zipper closure, so you can up the ante depending on your mood. We can envision this maxidress worn with chunky sneakers for a sporty look, or dressed up with PVC mules for a night out.
Nike Sportswear Essential Women’s Mid-Rise Woven Cargo Midi Skirt
A black cargo maxiskirt that can be unzipped into a midi-length skirt.
This maxiskirt can transform right before your eyes. No, it’s not magic. The cargo style features a zipper closure that allows the bottom hem to fall away, making the skirt midi in an instant. The transformation factor is pretty cool, giving you two products in one. The cargo aspect is also great, giving the skirt a utilitarian feel. Pocket detailing gives way to an elasticized waist and a contrasting embroidered white Nike logo. Sizing options range from XS to XL. We recommend styling this piece with low-top sneakers or flats and a little sports bra or tank top.
Source: Nike / NIke
Just as Nike has begun raising prices on its merchandise thanks to Donald Trump’s idiotic and unnecessary tariffs, the Swoosh brand has decided to once again partner up with Amazon to ensure they sell as much product as they can as prices rise, the economy stumbles and consumers feel the brunt of America’s “Golden Age.”
According to The Verge, Nike will once again be placing it’s products on Amazon after taking a 6-year hiatus from the website and while we’re sure they won’t be selling their more limited releases on Jeff Bezo’s online market, they’ll be moving their everyday merchandise such as sneakers, shirts and accessories. As to why Nike severed their ties with Amazon in the first place, the Swoosh brand felt that Amazon wasn’t doing enough to keep counterfeiters and bootleggers from selling fake Nike merchandise on their site and though there are tons of Nike products still on Amazon, they’re all sold through third parties who may or may not be selling official Nike apparel.
But Nike has decided to get back in the Amazon game and will be selling directly to customers through the e-commerce conglomerate.
The Verge reports:
“While independent sellers have listed some Nike inventory in our store for many years, Amazon will soon begin sourcing a much wider range of Nike products directly to expand our selection for US customers,” Amazon spokesperson Megan Lagesse told The Verge. “We value independent sellers, and we’re providing an extended period of time for the small number of sellers affected to sell through their inventory of overlapping items.”
Nike’s direct-to-consumer strategy seemed to be working well during the covid pandemic, when online shopping spiked, but has wobbled since. In 2023 the company began restoring its relationships with retailers including Foot Locker and Macy’s, and new CEO Elliott Hill, who took up the post in October 2024, has made building back Nike’s wholesale business a key pillar of the company’s plans.
While this doesn’t mean that Amazon will become a tier 0 store which sells limited edition Travis Scott or Nigel Sylvester Air Jordans, it’ll definitely make life easier for consumers who want their Nike products ASAP as Prime Members will get their attire within 48 hours as opposed to a whole week or two.
What do y’all think about Nike once again getting on the Amazon train? Let us know in the comments section below.
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Source: Nike / Nike
The sneaker game is about to get even more interesting. Nike is set to raise their pricing starting this summer.
As exclusively reported by Complex, the global apparel company will be charging more for their goods. According the story Nike will be increasing price points by $2 to $10 dollars depending on the item. The company apparently formally notified their retail partners and authorized distributors earlier this week. This new plan will impact consumer pricing starting in June while the wholesale pricing is set to take place in July. In an statement to Complex they detailed their decision saying “we regularly evaluate our business and make pricing adjustments as part of our seasonal planning.”
There will be products excluded by the increase; specifically, all footwear under $100, all kids items and Jordan apparel and accessories. Thankfully, the classic Nike Air Force 1 model, which usually retails for $115, will not be impacted by the new pricing plan. Nike says these exclusions were considered so “everyday consumers” can still shop with confidence. Nike has not explicitly confirmed that the pricing increase is due to President Trump’s newly imposed tariffs but claims “expected inflation” and “economic conditions” influenced their strategy.
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All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. Since 2023, Grammy-nominated rapper Lil Yachty has partnered with sports apparel company Nike on a line of signature sneakers. And now, […]
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Nike just released all new footwear and apparel in collaboration with basketball star A’ja Wilson.
When she’s not dominating the basketball court or winning herself a few Olympic gold medals, Wilson is working on her style game — with Nike in tow. This latest drop includes two new colorways of Wilson’s signature A’One sneaker, cozy cropped hoodies, A’One Calm slides in hot pink hues and much more.
The powerhouse collab is one to watch, mixing performance wear with vibrant hues and meaningful motifs that marry to create apparel and footwear that can be worn both on and off the court. With so much to choose from, here are some of our fave styles to shop now on Nike’s website.
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A’One Basketball Sneaker in OG Pearl
Wilson’s signature sneaker with iridescent detailing.
According to USA Today, the first A’One drop sold out in less than five minutes, and it’s easy to see why. This drop’s A’One sneaker features all the facets from the first model, but with an iridescent finish that draws inspo from a necklace given to Wilson by her grandma. Marrying form with function, the style includes performance details such as Cushion 3.0 foam soles that cradle the feet, and a generative traction pattern that helps for quick decision making on the court, allowing wearers to turn on a dime.
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Lightweight and stylish, the sneaker also includes extended bumps along the heels that give optimal stability, and midfoot bands that help with arch support so you can jump, dunk and run with ease. Worn with other athleisure pieces, the sneakers are sporty and playful. If you style these with a flouncy dress or casual denim, the kicks become a statement piece, drawing the eye with each high-shine step. The styling possibilities are endless.
A’ja Wilson Women’s A’symmetric Mid-Rise Single-Leg Basketball Leggings
Asymmetric pink leggings with Nike x A’ja Wilson co-branding.
Looking for a playful addition to your workout fits? Look no farther than Wilson’s A’symmetric Mid-Rise Single-Leg leggings. Made for basketball but perfect for a rave or a trip to grab a latte, these leggings are packed with style thanks to the asymmetric single leg detail.
Retailing for $55, the Olympian-approved athleisure in “Pinksicle” is made of an ultra-stretchy, quick-drying fabric, meaning breaking a sweat during a tense game is the least of your worries. These leggings embody Wilson’s attitude and personal style, pairing with your favorite athleisure pieces from hoodies to zip-ups seamlessly. Sizing options currently range from XS to XL.
A’ja Wilson A’One Adult Nike Basketball T-Shirt
A cotton T-shirt with pink, black and white motif on the front.
The perfect graphic tee is now within reach. Retailing for $45, the A’One basketball tee emulates Wilson’s confidence on and off the court. This piece is unisex and made of 100% breathable cotton. It comes in sizes XS to XXL.
The front of the tee is adorned with an eye-catching hand motif featuring chunky rings and hot pink nails holding an A’One-branded basketball in shades of white, black and pink. We can see this piece paired with baggy jeans and your favorite athletic kicks. Or dress it up with a maxiskirt and a leather jacket for a night out, repping your fave athlete.
A’ja Wilson Women’s Oversized Cropped Basketball Hoodie
Cropped basketball hoodie made of French terry fabric.
When Wilson isn’t owning the court or breaking records, comfort is key. For those off days, you’ll wanna snag this cropped basketball hoodie to relax in style. Retailing for $100, the piece is made of a unique sweat-wicking French terry fabric that keeps you dry all day long.
It’s full of great details that at first glance, you might just miss. Take the satin-lined hood, for example. The material is anti-frizz, meaning your hair will stay on-point even with the hood drawn up. The crop earns major style points, giving the oversized structure some shape. Roomy pocket detailing gives way to good old drawstrings that cinch the hood tight. Sizes range from XS to XXL.
A’ja Wilson Women’s Basketball Shorts
Pink satin basketball shorts with a drawstring closure.
Basketball shorts never looked so good. Retailing for $65, these shorts lie high-waisted and snug, imbued with an unapologetic attitude a la Wilson. The piece is crafted of hot pink satin fabric that offers the shorts a luxe feel. Drawstring closures attached to the waist offer an adjustable fit while graphic black Nike x A’ja Wilson cobranding makes the shorts instantly recognizable.
Wilson signed her first deal with Nike back in 2018, after being drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA. The Olympian’s signature sneaker, the A’One, was first released in May of this year in a vibrant Pink A’ura colorway.
In a Nike press release, Wilson spoke about the signature shoe, saying, “It’s everything I need, engineered for my game and my style — and built to motivate the next generation to go big.” Wilson added, “The A’One is meant to go the distance, taking control from the jump and dominating the floor on every play.”
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes. Kendrick Lamar‘s latest sneaker statement is a unique one. The “Not Like Us” rapper was spotted in women’s Nike Vomero Roam […]
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Source: Nike Basketball / Nike Basketball
Years after the Nike Kobe sneaker line was a scarce product out on these streets, Nike has been giving Kobe fans all the kicks that they can handle (lots of them are sitting on shelves). Now, they’ll be re-releasing the sneaker that started it all at the Swoosh brand. We’re sure fans can’t hardly wait.
According to Sneaker News, Nike will be retroing the classic Nike Kobe 1 “81 Points” in 2026 in honor of the 20th anniversary of Kobe’s classic game against the Toronto Raptors in which he dropped a historic 81 points on Jalen Rose (sorry, man, but he did). Featuring the classic white, purple and gold Lakers colorway, the first Kobe silhouette that Nike released following his departure from adidas, the Kobe 1 “81 Points” will most definitely become a must-have for hardcore Kobe fans who witnessed his greatness during his historic 20-year NBA career.
Per Sneaker News:
The Nike Kobe 1 “81 Points” was released as a limited PE in 2007 and then again as a Protro in 2019. Importantly, Kobe’s 81-point game preceded the wide release of the Nike Kobe 1 by about a month. No images of the 2026 Protro have surfaced yet, but the sneaker is expected to feature the same “White/Black/Court Purple” blocking alongside modern performance upgrades.
The only question is whether the sneakers will be a limited release (as Nike is once again keeping production numbers low of their classic silhouettes in 2025) or if it’ll be a big rollout so they can cash in on the hype. Either way, we expect these to be a hard cop.
Check out pics of the original Kobe 1 “81 Points” below, and let us know if you’ll be checking for these when they drop in 2026.
