Nike Ja 1 Day One DR8785-400 Release Date

For Ja Morant, the opportunity to create his own piece of footwear is a dream come true. Teaming up with Nike, he underwent an 18-month-long design journey that resulted in the introduction of the Nike Ja 1 on Christmas Day 2022. Later on, he and the Nike Basketball team sat down with us to discuss this process and the various decisions they made together — including the selection of this “Day One” colorway as his lead look. Now, after wearing various pairs on court for months, the Ja 1 is finally ready for lift off.

Leading the charge with Morant’s “Midnight Series” of looks — as noted at the heel — the “Day One” features his own “Cobalt Bliss” shade of blue. Its theme revolves around the idea of Morant feeling as though he’s putting in the work while others are asleep with the midnight and 12am motifs representing this. Looking at the shoe, its Memphis Grizzlies-like light blue runs throughout the upper while the Swooshes appear in a lime green to watermelon pink gradient. Its Zoom technology-backed midsole appears in a pastel yellow while a sunrise pink adorns the outsole. Completing the release, nods to Morant appear at the tongue, unique sockliner, heel and packaging.

Release is now expected to take place on April 19 via Nike and select retailers at a price of $110 USD — making it the least expensive signature shoe available from the Swoosh at this time.