LeBron James Debuts Deion-Inspired Sneakers in All-Star Game

Deion Sanders inspired LeBron James' Nike sneakers for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game.
LeBron James Debuts Deion-Inspired Sneakers in All-Star Game
LeBron James Debuts Deion-Inspired Sneakers in All-Star Game /

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It does not matter how many years pass; one of the few consistencies is LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers forward made history tonight by starting in his 20th NBA All-Star Game.

To celebrate his 21st season in the NBA, James used his footwear to pay homage to a sports icon who wore the number 21. Two-sport legend and Colorado Buffaloes head football coach Deion Sanders served as the inspiration for James' sneakers.

To celebrate his 21st season (and 21st signature sneaker), James paid tribute to "Coach Prime" with a special colorway of his signature sneakers. James debuted a never-before-seen colorway of the Nike LeBron 21.

The shoes are a nod to the Nike Air DT Max '96. The shoes have been redesigned for football, baseball, and lifestyle purposes over the years, but this is the first time we have seen the concept applied to basketball shoes.

Nike LeBron 21

LeBron James dunks during warms up before the 2024 NBA All-Star game.
LeBron James wears the Nike LeBron 21 'Coach Prime' colorway / Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

The Nike LeBron 21 was officially launched in September 2023 for $200 in adult sizes. There have been several colorways released over the past five months, and online shoppers can choose between a wide selection on the Nike website.

Engineering a performance basketball shoe capable of supporting the most powerful player in the NBA is no easy task. That is why Nike incorporated a cabling system that works with Zoom Air cushioning for a lightweight, low-profile model. The top-loaded, strong plastic plate in the midfoot provides added stability for cutting on a dime.

With 21 installments in the Nike LeBron signature line, it is tough for any sneaker to stand out. But the Nike LeBron 21 made a statement tonight that will resonate with athletes across multiple sports. Stay locked into FanNationKicks.com for all your sneaker news from the sports world.

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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.