Ja Morant and Nike release Ja 2 and pay tribute to his college team

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant’s next signature sneaker is prepared for its official debut. The first colorway honors Murray State University, the college that helped him turn into one among the NBA’s top players.

The Nike Ja 2, Morant’s second collaboration with the brand, releases on Thursday in an “Induction” colorway. Nike surprised Morant within the sneaker at his alma mater’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony in July. Available in dark gray and cobalt blue with a touch of gold, the brand new silhouette builds on what made Morant’s first model successful.

“When entering Ja 2, I wanted the shoes to be even more comfortable. I wanted to change direction faster and still have enough spring to be able to jump,” Morant said .

Nike designed the newest Memphis point guards to be lighter on the feet, provide greater durability, provide adequate ankle support and higher respond to sudden movements. They incorporate his life story into the combo beyond aesthetics, because the traction pattern underfoot mimics the trailer tires Morant used to train in his backyard when he was younger.

The personal narratives that began with Me 1 proceed within the sequel. The “Purple Sky” color scheme was inspired by the thought of ​​watching Morant’s quick ball-handling moves and high-flying dunks, and is comparable to the experience of viewing a purple night sky. The model also includes personal inscriptions, corresponding to the names of the daughter, sister, mother and father, carved into the central arch. “(It’s about) introducing my fans to a different story that they may not be familiar with,” Morant said. “We tell these stories through the colors of my shoe.”

“At Nike Basketball, we will work with the most effective athletes on the earth, help them be even higher on the court and create a canvas for storytelling. We’re excited for the world to wear Ja 2 and proceed to be inspired by his development and electric kind of play,” said Josh Wachtel, vp/general manager, Nike Global Men’s Basketball.

The Nike Ja 2 Men’s Shoe features waterfall-inspired collar padding and ankle padding.

The side rail of the Nike Ja 2 is designed to protect and stabilize.

The Nike Ja 2’s underfoot traction pattern is inspired by the trailer tires that Memphis Grizzlies defenseman Ja Morant used as a baby while training in his backyard.

“The Ja 2 gives hoopers everything they need – it’s flexible, fast, stable, looks great and comes in kid sizes to serve the next generation,” Wachtel said.

The 25-year-old, whose 2023-2024 season was cut short due to suspension and injury, can even see his Nike line grow. The Nike Ja 2 will probably be accompanied by an apparel collection consisting of a fleece hoodie and pants. The shoe will probably be released in kid’s sizes for the primary time.

The Nike Ja 2 “Induction” will probably be available starting Thursday on the SNKRs app and in select markets for $120. “Purple Sky” will release on October eighth on Nike.com and will probably be available at select retailers.