“In the NBA Playoffs, audiences are not only interested in the performances, but they also pay attention to the players’ sneakers. From Anthony Edwards to Paolo Banchero, many stars have showcased new shoe models to promote upcoming releases.”
The new shoe models worn by players in the NBA Playoff 2024
Anthony Edwards: Adidas AE 1 Low “Mural”
Before the game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Phoenix Suns on April 21st, Adidas introduced the new AE 1 Low sneakers through a short advertising video featuring Anthony Edwards driving a convertible Saab 900.
During the game, Edwards wore the AE 1 Low “Mural” edition, featuring a peach-colored sole combined with a black upper. He finished the game with 33 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.
A better news for Edwards’ fans is that the AE 1 Low sneakers will be sold for $110, quite affordable in the basketball shoe segment.
Luka Doncic: Jordan Luka 3 “Photo Finish”
The Dallas Mavericks, led by Doncic, suffered a loss in Game 1 against the Los Angeles Clippers while Doncic sported his own brand of sneakers, the Jordan Luka 3 “Photo Finish.”
The design of the sneakers integrates Jordan Brand’s IsoPlate technology along with a midsole made of Cushion 3.0 foam material. According to Jordan Brand, the Luka 3 is inspired by Doncic’s love for sports cars. Naming the editions “Photo Finish” (a term in racing) as well as “Midnight Racer” clearly alludes to this.
The Jordan Luka 3 is set to be released in July 2024 with a retail price of $130.
Paolo Banchero: Jordan 39 “Lead”
Paolo Banchero showcased the latest product line from Jordan Brand, the Jordan 39 “Lead,” while playing for the Orlando Magic. Unlike Doncic, Banchero doesn’t have his own branded sneakers, but he introduced the new Jordan 39 “Lead” model.
Unfortunately, these sneakers didn’t bring luck to Banchero as he and his teammates suffered a loss to the formidable Cleveland Cavaliers, despite his contribution of 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
On the same day, sports shoe journalist Nick DePaula also introduced another colorway of the Jordan 39. Dubbed the “University” colorway, this pair features blue accents on a gray mesh upper and a translucent midsole.
Donovan Mitchell: Adidas DON Issue 6 “Camp”
Donovan Mitchell also debuted a new pair of sneakers during Game 1 between Cleveland and Orlando. He introduced the latest style of his own branded sneakers, the Adidas DON Issue 6 “Camp.”
The DON Issue 6 features a multi-layered mesh construction, with large carbon fiber pieces to increase stability during movement. It also incorporates Adidas’ Lightstrike Pro cushioning technology, found in some of the brand’s running shoes.
This is the first low-cut version of the DON series, ensuring aesthetic appeal whether for playing basketball or everyday wear. Mitchell ended the game with a win against the Magic, scoring a team-high 30 points.
Damian Lillard: Adidas Dame 9
Thành tích 35 điểm của Damian Lillard chỉ trong nửa thời gian đầu trận trước Indiana Pacers sẽ là dấu ấn đáng nhớ với bất kỳ cầu thủ nào trong lịch sử của Milwaukee Bucks. Rất có thể Lillard được tiếp thêm sức mạnh từ đôi giày thương hiệu mới nhất của mình – Adidas Dame 9. Phiên bản Dame 9 đã được Adidas tiết lộ từ tháng 2, nhưng trận đấu này mới là lần đầu tiên Lillard diện đôi giày này trên sàn đấu. Với những kiểu dáng mới được trình làng bởi các ngôi sao NBA, Adidas hứa hẹn sẽ khiến thị trường giày bóng rổ bùng nổ hơn trong năm nay.
Kevin Durant: Nike KD 17
Phoenix Suns’ star Kevin Durant opted for a pair of Nike KD 17 shoes named after him in the game against Minnesota.
Since joining the NBA in 2007, Durant has introduced a series of signature shoe editions with Nike. The latest design features a wave-patterned upper inspired by the famous Air Max Plus sneakers from this renowned brand. Two other color versions of the KD 17 have been introduced so far – one in green, black, and white called “Penny” set to release in May – and another in yellow, black, and orange named “Sunset” launched on April 12th with a price tag of $150.