Anthony Edwards Debuts Adidas AE 1 in HBCU Colorway

Adidas and Anthony Edwards highlight an HBCU for Black History Month.
Anthony Edwards Debuts Adidas AE 1 in HBCU Colorway
Anthony Edwards Debuts Adidas AE 1 in HBCU Colorway /

Most of the sneaker releases each February are focused on the annual NBA All-Star Game. While adidas is certainly bringing the heat for this upcoming weekend's events, it is also spotlighting HBCUs for Black History Month.

Last week, adidas unveiled a series of player-exclusive colorways of its signature models designed for its HBCU partners. Among those sneakers was the adidas AE 1, reimagined in a black and gold colorway for the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff Lions.

During Monday night's statement win against the Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards laced up the festive kicks. Below is a detailed look and breakdown of the adidas AE 1 "Arkansas Pine Bluff."

adidas AE 1

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards' gold and black adidas sneakers.
The adidas AE 1 "Arkansas Pine Bluff." / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The adidas AE 1 was wonderfully reimagined to showcase Lions pride. The distinctive TPU cage, rubber herringbone outsole, laces, and adidas logos feature Arkansas Pine Bluff's shade of gold. Meanwhile, the black mesh upper and heel counter accentuate the Lions logo on the media ankle.

Unfortunately for fans, these hoop shoes are not for sale but are intended as a celebration of adidas' commitment to the HBCUs and their athletic programs. Basketball fans can expect to see both men's and women's teams wear these sneakers on the hardwood.

Even more remarkable, Arkansas Pine Bluff is the only NCAA school to receive a player-exclusive colorway of the adidas AE 1 this season. 

The Timberwolves are back in action tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers, and all eyes will be on Edwards' feet to see what else he has in store for the sneaker and basketball community.

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Published
Pat Benson
PAT BENSON

Pat Benson covers the sneaker industry for Sports Illustrated's FanNation. Previously, he has reported on the NBA, authored "Kobe Bryant's Sneaker History (1996-2020)," and interviewed some of the biggest names in the sports world. You can email him at 1989patbenson@gmail.com.