NBA Media Day 2019 is already underway, and other than making the wait for the regular season [feel] even longer, it has been a real eye-opener.
Seeing superstars like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook, Anthony Davis, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George in different uniforms from last year let that wild summer sink in.
Of course, those fresh threads had to come with fresher kicks, which set the tone for a much crazier sneaker season.
Kyrie Irving - Nike Kyrie 2 Low 'Air Max Plus'
Following the success of his Kyrie 5 collaboration with SpongeBob Squarepants, the Brooklyn Nets guard runs it back with a sunset-themed colorway of his second signature sneaker. He described the pair via B/R Kicks: "Wearing something special for today. Light, though. Very, very light."
Anthony Davis - Nike Kobe 4 Protro
It's been a while since we last saw this clean sillhouette, and who better lace 'em up than the Lakers' prized big man (not named Dwight Howard). Players have been paying the Mamba homage every media day, and we'll see if Kobe's mentality rubs off on LeBron's superstar teammate.
Kyle Kuzma - Rhude x PUMA
It would've been better if he kept the blonde locks, but rocking a streetwear piece is a good start for someone who wants to be the Rodman to Bron and AD's MJ and Pip. Balling in those is another matter, though, especially with Kuz still on the mend after injuring his foot during his Team USA run.
PJ Tucker - Air Jordan 3 'Grateful'
By the looks of things, the 34-year-old forward isn't going to give up his title of NBA Sneaker King anytime soon. Despite the fact that the Houston front office has yet to offer him a contract extension, PJ made an entrance at the preseason event in Rockets colors and a classic Jordan sillhouette.
Kyle Lowry - adidas Harden Vol. 3
Toronto is expecting big things from the five-time NBA All-Star and newly crowned champion in the wake of Kawhi's departure. Kyle hopes to channel the Beard's backcourt dominance, as the Raptors try to surmount an even bigger hurdle to silence their doubters and defend the title.
Lou Williams - PEAK Underground
Little is known about the three-time, reigning Sixth Man of the Year's new signature shoe with the Chinese brand, but it might have something to do with Lou's studio project, Underground Goat. Whether it's dropping bars or 40 points off the bench, expect the spitfire guard to deliver.
Paul George - Nike PG1
PG, who is eyeing a November return from shoulder injury, does the ultimate throwback with his successful Nike debut, only in what look like a never-before-seen colorway. The model seems to be decked out in navy blue suede, with intricate details on the insole, according to the new Clipper.
Montrezl Harrell - adidas T-Mac Millenium '2004 All-Star'
If there's anyone who has the kicks game to give heat king PJ Tucker a run for his money, it has to be Trez. The 6th MOY runner-up, who reportedly signed with AND1 last June but is currently a sneaker free agent, actually brought a couple of pairs for media day — this and some Kobe 2s.
LeBron James - Nike LeBron 7
Sportsnet's Allie Clifton made sure Bron's shoe choice doesn't go unnoticed. Asked why he went for the mismatched 7s, the three-time champion explained, "Year 17, so we're going to do a little seven. Laker colorway for the Laker faithful." The King then showed up for training camp in textured 17s:
Kawhi Leonard - New Balance OMN1s
Why it's taking too long for NB to release Kawhi's signature shoe still baffles us. After all, this is perfect timing — The Klaw just won his second championship with the Toronto Raptors before teaming up with PG and the Los Angeles Clippers. His endorsement deal is as mysterious as the player himself.
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