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- calendar_today October 27, 2026
Nike Launches Air Force 1 'Philly' to Celebrate LeBron James' Sixers Debut
Nike introduced a new variant of its iconic Air Force 1 sneakers last week to mark basketball star LeBron James' highly anticipated home debut with the Philadelphia 76ers. The release celebrates James' arrival to the team and his longstanding association with Nike.
Design Details: A Tribute to Philadelphia
The Air Force 1 '01 "Philly" sneakers showcase a distinct red, white, and blue color scheme, reflecting both the city's and the team's colors. Key features include the letters "PHL" emblazoned on the sides and "Phila" embroidered in script on the heel. The sneakers also include blue soles and insoles marked by a broken black-and-white brick motif, disrupted by the Nike swoosh to symbolize James' move to a new city.
Commemorative Sneakers and LeBron's Nike Partnership
LeBron James has maintained a close partnership with Nike since signing his first contract with the brand at 18 for a record-setting $90 million, the largest rookie endorsement in basketball history at the time. In 2015, their relationship deepened with a lifetime contract, estimated to pay James between $30-40 million annually for his signature shoe line. The newly launched "Philly" Air Force 1s reinforce this partnership as James takes the court for the Sixers.
Release Information: Accessibility and Demand
The Philly-inspired Air Force 1 '01 retail for $140 and quickly drew interest from sneaker enthusiasts. They were made available through the SNKRS platform as well as Center City's Lapstone & Hammer store, where they immediately sold out. Expected shipping for pairs ordered from Lapstone & Hammer is scheduled for late February. Nike has not yet announced whether this edition will be restocked.
LeBron James' Latest Signature Shoes and Sixers' Sneaker Lineup
LeBron James also wore his newest on-court model, the Nike LeBron 24s, in blue and red for the Sixers' home opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers. This newest signature basketball shoe is designed as his lightest yet, featuring a mesh material called "KingNet" for improved breathability. The Nike LeBron 24 is set for global release on November 17, available online and at select retailers.
James is now one of four 76ers starters with their own signature basketball shoes. Tyrese Maxey introduced his first model, the New Balance Maxey v1, which releases November 2. Joel Embiid, after moving from Under Armour to Skechers, debuted the SKX JE1 in December—the first signature basketball sneaker for Skechers. Jaylen Brown showcased his second signature collection from his own brand, 741 Performance, with a wider release planned for the coming month. Additionally, rising player VJ Edgecombe recently signed a multi-year deal with Adidas, with rumors circulating about a potential signature shoe in development.
Nike's Broader Sneaker Tributes in the NBA
This "Philly" themed Air Force 1 follows Nike's earlier commemorative release celebrating the New York Knicks' first NBA title in 53 years. The Sixers' strong start to the NBA season, including spoiling the Knicks' ring night, has highlighted the excitement around both the team and its players' growing presence in the sneaker world.
Source: phillyvoice.com.
