LeBron, Nike to release sneaker inspired by 'White Men Can't Jump'

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James’ 17th signature sneaker with Nike has paid tribute to a myriad of themes since its fall 2019 release. From his I Promise school to most recently the Monstars colorway inspired by next summer’s “Space Jam” sequel, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to the King.

The latest drop pays homage to the Command Force silhouette, which became popular in large part to Woody Harrelson’s portrayal of Billy Hoyle in the 1992 classic “White Men Can’t Jump.”

The kicks are unlike any previous LeBron 17 colorway. Features include textured white Battleknit uppers decorated with swirled multi-color accents, honoring Harrelson’s outlandish ensembles in the cult classic. For this specific shoe, the signature lion displayed on the tongue is replaced by an altered rendition of the original Command Force’s tongue badge, which reads “LeBron” in a bold lime green hue.

Inside the sole reads “The Official Shoe of LeBron James” while a translucent sole completes the look. Keeping in line with their innovative technology, the midsole combines what Nike calls a “first-of-its-kind” Max Air unit in the heel and volt Zoom Air pods in the forefoot, ensuring comfort and responsiveness with each stride.

With some believing the 90s were the golden age of basketball, this sneaker plays into the nostalgia many who grew up in that era feel about the game. The colors are reminiscent of a simpler time, reimagined for a new generation of basketball and sneaker enthusiasts worldwide.

Retailing for $200, the Nike LeBron 17 “Command Force” sneakers make their online debut on Nike and select retailers on April 17.