Like many NBA superstars before him, Ja Morant also reaps the benefits of having his own signature line of shoes with Nike. Although his relationship with the brand can only be defined as rocky, the Portland Trail Blazers guard seems to have bounced back stronger with his latest releases.
Earlier in the month, Ja Morant unveiled his new line of signature shoes, the “Ja 4.” However, shortly after the launch, the superstar is gearing up for the release of another sneaker, known as the “Twelve Time.”
For all intents and purposes, the “Twelve Time” is being marketed as a budget-friendly alternative to the “Ja 4.” However, the motivation behind creating a more affordable sneaker is quite inspiring. Ja Morant opened up on this during a recent statement, sharing:
“This one means a lot to me, for real. Growing up, not everybody could always get the top shoe, so making something at a lower price point was important. I want more kids to be able to wear my stuff, hoop in it, feel like they’re part of it.”
“And the crazy part is – we didn’t cut corners. It’s still a dope hoop shoe; you can go out there and compete in it, but we added that lifestyle feel too. I feel like you can hoop in it, then step off the court and still look right. That balance is what makes it special.”
The growth of the sneaker industry has been one of the more noteworthy changes in the past few years. Now, with NBA players, especially superstars, regularly releasing new shoes, there is always a demand in the market. However, it is equally safe to say that these shoes aren’t easily accessible to everyone.
In the current context, an entry-level pair of signature Nike sneakers by players like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Ja Morant would cost anywhere between $110 and $125. When looking at top-tier lines from LeBron James and Kevin Durant, prices can range from $155 to over $200.
In this regard, the Trail Blazers superstar appears to be heading down the Shaquille O’Neal route. By making signature shoes more accessible to the masses, Morant is effectively reaching out to a broader segment of the market, offering signature shoes without compromising on style or quality.
For the most part, the “Twelve Time” and the “Ja 4” are expected to be similar in appearance, as both will feature Morant’s logo throughout. The only notable difference will be that the “Twelve Time” has budget-friendly cushioning in the midsole, a simpler overall build, and asymmetrical lacing.
Following the launch of the “Ja 4,” Ja Morant’s next line of signature shoes is expected to be released in the first week of September in three colorways: red, black, and purple.
With the superstar being moved to the Portland Trail Blazers this summer, it appears that this line of shoes will also reflect the team’s colors. Although Morant won’t be wearing the No. 12 for the Blazers, fans will eagerly look forward to his new line of shoes.
