Following last month’s successful Converse X Space Jam: A New Legacy collaboration, the brand continues its basketball-inspired collections. The Converse X NBA JAM pack pays homage to one of the earliest basketball video games that put the genre on the map.
Does art imitate life or does life imitate art? NBA JAM was the game that brought players high-flying dunks, extreme shots from half-court while humiliating your opponent in the process. The game was originally released as a title on arcade in the 90s, it went on to inspire generations of basketball games thereafter.
The collaboration sees the redesign of three classic Converse silhouettes. This includes the Pro Leather, All-Star BB Evo and the Chuck 70. All of these have the NBA JAM makeover, featuring bold and striking colours with a mix of modern materials and elements.
Converse X NBA JAM Pro Leather
First on the list from the collection is the Pro Leather sneaker. Featured in a high-top design and leather upper, it is inspired by the “He’s On Fire” commentary.
It includes pixelated fire graphics on the sides, as well as on the back heel tab. Other design elements include the Smart FOAM sockliner, which provides extra comfort. Lastly, it also features the brick pattern outsole from the original sneaker.
Converse X NBA JAM All Star BB EVO
The All-Star BB Evo is a more modern sneaker, featuring a mix of Nike and Converse technology. This includes the Nike React drop-in midsole. It provides on-court protection across a range of motion and responsiveness.
This is enhanced with the Nike Zoom “air bags” in the forefoot and heel. It gives wearers that enhanced cushioning on impact. Extra comfort is provided with the OrthoLite sock-liner.
Additionally, it features a personal lace system for a customised lockdown. The Converse Power Plate provides great energy return, with the rubber outsole brings a multidirectional traction pattern. This offers additional grip and control for on-court performance.
Converse X NBA JAM Chuck 70
Another Converse classic is the Chuck 70. It features the NBA JAM screen printed graphic on the upper. This sits atop the static knit material, which is featured on the tongue and heelstay, with the vintage TV fuzz for the classic 90s aesthetic.
The NBA JAM elements are extended to the sockliner with a graphic print. It features multi-coloured lace tips, which represents arcade Players 1-4. Additionally, cushioning is provided in the form of the OrthoLite insole.
The Converse X NBA JAM collaboration is currently available across the country. Pricing ranges from R2,099 to R3,299
The pack will be available online at Converse.co.za. Further to this, it’ll also be available in-store at Converse Sandton City, Sportscene, Lemkus, Superbalist and Shesha.
