NBA B/R Kicks of the Week: Best on Court for NBA Week 20
Here's a piece of news worth mentioning: As of today, we've reached the 20th edition of the NBA's best on-court kicks.
This weekly list started as a way to expose what various athletes were sporting and has quickly morphed into something bigger. It's now a measuring stick to find out who is on top of the sneaker world and who has come catching up to do.
The formula remains the same. Browse our list below to find out which NBA stars broke out the best kicks over the last seven days of action.
LeBron James: Nike LeBron 14 'Player Exclusive'
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Who: Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James
Sneaker Worn: Nike LeBron 14 "Player Exclusive"
The issue with "Player Exclusive" models continues to be how they frustrate consumers. Think about it. When a superstar like LeBron James gets to wear specialized colorways and dynamic iterations, it essentially takes the decision out of the people's hands.
In a way, Nike is telling you what should be available for retail and what should be reserved for James.
Jealousy and logistics aside, the "Player Exclusive" Nike LeBron 14s James wore on March 6 against the Miami Heat were dazzling. The sneaker reflects a night out, basking underneath Miami's art deco scene. A black silhouette was brushed up with neon blue outlining and a multi-tone sole. The result of all of Nike's tinkering was a thing of beauty.
James continues to conquer the NBA in terms of "Player Exclusive" kicks. It's almost comical at this juncture to stack him up against any other signature athlete.
Avery Bradley: Air Jordan XX 'Playoffs'
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Who: Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley
Sneaker Worn: Air Jordan XX "Playoffs"
The Air Jordan XX remains a forgotten piece of Michael's signature line. When you push through all of the classics and all of the post-MJ playing day models, the XX stands out as a pivotal piece of footwear thanks to its racy design.
Avery Bradley of the Boston Celtics wore the "Playoffs" edition of the XXs against the Los Angeles Clippers. From the free-standing ankle strap all the way down to the upper, a black tone was used to coat the base.
What separates the "Playoffs" XX from other XX models is the white, digital-etched forefoot strap and toe box. Remember, the XX's strap features powerful artist renditions of Jordan's personal achievements as a pro.
Together, these features help give the sneaker enough of an aesthetics push to really stand out. Kudos to Bradley for breaking out a pair.
Willie Cauley-Stein: Nike PG 1 'Shining'
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Who: Sacramento Kings center Willie Cauley-Stein
Sneaker Worn: Nike PG 1 "Shining"
Paul George isn't the only NBA athlete wearing his own signature kicks. Sacramento Kings center Willie Cauley-Stein broke out the "Shining" PG 1s against the Denver Nuggets on March 6.
The "Shining" PG 1 is a subtle nod to George's debut line. It doesn't grab your attention with bright colors and the use of visceral materials. Rather than go for shock and awe, the all-black treatment and reflective Swoosh was enough of a boost needed to turn the "Shining" PG 1 into a must-own piece of footwear.
Cauley-Stein used these kicks to make his first appearance on our list.
Mike Conley: Air Jordan XXXI 'Player Exclusive'
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Who: Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley
Sneaker Worn: Air Jordan XXXI "Player Exclusive"
You'd think Kawahi Leonard would be the man when it came to wearing "Player Exclusive" Air Jordan XXXIs. Believe it or not, Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley is out here carrying the "PE" torch.
Over the course of the 2016-17 NBA season, Conley has consistently worn captivating "Player Exclusive" models. He continued that trend with this yellow and white cut, unveiled against the Brooklyn Nets on March 6. The solid shades of yellow on the heel trickling down to the mesh upper and white toe box remain part of the XXXI's allure.
Appreciating all that the Air Jordan XXXI has to offer is indicative of a great sneaker. Conley, being the Jordan Brand ambassador he is, has helped turned the sneaker into a memorable one.
Stephen Curry: Under Armour Curry 3ZERO
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Who: Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry
Sneaker Worn: Under Armour Curry 3ZERO
Behold, the Under Armour Curry 3ZERO. Under Armour stripped down the Curry 3 and essentially created a brand-new sneaker for Steph's impending postseason run.
Curry broke out the golden pair early on March 5 against the New York Knicks, giving people a glimpse into the future of his line. Unlike the Curry 3, the 3ZERO takes a stronger approach to stability and traction. Between the padded sole and extra support mechanism on the ankles, this shoe is supposed to carry Curry through the playoffs.
The Curry 3ZERO looks better than its predecessor and hopefully is a sign of where the Curry line is headed next season.
All production information and release dates via Nike News and Adidas News unless noted otherwise.
