First debuted by James himself during the 2024 NBA All-Star Game, the Nike LeBron 21 “Prime ’96” has been a long time coming – over nine months since word of LeBron James dropping his new homage to “Prime Time” first hit the streets. Now, the LeBron 21 Prime ’96 in “Varsity Red” finally hits stores this week.
As Sneaker News reports, there’s always been mutual admiration between LeBron James and Deion Sanders, but events in the past year or so have further intertwined the two legends of their craft. Prime has played a pivotal role in shaping the pro turn for his son Shedeur, while assuredly you know by now the “family business” that The King has enjoyed. However, their crossed fortunes have also become concrete in the realm of footwear. First there was the Nike LeBron 21 “Prime ’93,” and now, one of James’ personal on-court selections is set to hit the public via the LeBron 21 “Prime ’96.”
According to Nike, “Deion’s legendary swagger inspired a young LeBron to strive for his own greatness. So as the King celebrates his 21st season, it’s only right the legends link up in this prime-time design. Inspired by the Nike Air Diamond Turf ’96, this LeBron 21 combines the iconic midfoot strap and claw marks that Deion wore during his heyday with court-ready Air Zoom cushioning. And, of course, the colors nod to Coach Prime’s program.”
Debuted on-court in the red/white and black/white that brought the DT Max ’96 back to shelves, the LeBron 21 greatly contorts its usual composition to befit the gridiron silhouette. Grafting on the model’s midfoot strap is the most obvious, but the deep grooves that cut through the sidewalls and into the midsole are another, revealing the string-like detailing from mainline editions. Indeed, the red and white colorway remains intact from what we saw James sport during regular season play, and it has just officially been presented with a gilded Swoosh underneath the collar and two similar metallic eyelets at the very top of the laces.
The Nike LeBron 21 “Prime ’96” is set to release on April 25th, retailing for $200 at Nike.com and shoe outlets everywhere.
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