Introducing the Nike LeBron 21

Inspired by LeBron James’ 8-year-old daughter Zhuri.

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21 years in the NBA, 21 iterations of the Nike LeBron series. Defying all expectations, LeBron James continues to thrive both on and off the court. In anticipation of his 21st season, he’s again linked up with the Nike Basketball team to introduce another signature shoe — the LeBron 21. Previously, the superstar was spotted with the shoe multiple times. However, it has now been revealed in a previously-unseen “Akoya” colorway as the shoe has now been formally revealed. The news joins the unveiling of Devin Booker’s first signature shoe with Nike Basketball and the division’s 25-piece holiday footwear showcase.

Serving as an evolution of the LeBron 20, the 21 builds upon the low-cut profile by utilizing premium lightweight materials in a manner similar to that of oyster shells. Drawing inspiration from his 8-year-old daughter Zhuri, the shoe focuses on protecting the pearl inside by containing the foot during explosive movement. The upper’s lightweight mono-mesh is reinforced by zonal cables around the midfoot while perforations appear at the medial Swoosh for breathability. A Zoom Turbo unit has been placed in the forefoot with full-length Cushlon 2.0 foam backing the midsole alongside a TPU midfoot shank for stability. Additional nods to oyster shells are visible courtesy of the exposed foxing construction and quilted perforated tongue.

The Nike LeBron 21 makes its retail debut in this “Akoya” colorway later this month — arriving on September 28 via Nike SNKRS and select Nike Basketball retailers.

Looking for more of the latest news from the footwear space? Be sure to check out this week’s edition of best footwear drops — starring the debut of the Nike NOCTA Glide, another UNDEFEATED x Converse project and more.

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Logan Fairbrother Associate Editor

Logan Fairbrother is a writer who spent four years at Hypebeast, where he led the footwear vertical and spearheaded the weekly “Best Footwear Drops” franchise. Based in Portland, OR, his work centered on industry analysis and product storytelling, extending into fashion and gaming, with a focus on how products are positioned and resonate within culture.

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