The NBA, Doves, and Being Human: In Conversation With Emeric Tchatchoua of 3.Paradis

It’s a summer of sport, and 3.Paradis is a front-runner. Where athletes receive medals in gold, silver, and bronze colorways, 3.Paradis’ receives LVMH Prize nominations and ANDAM Fashion Awards.

Beyond their impressive list of accolades, 3.Paradis’ thought-provoking campaigns laced with spiritual and social commentary lay the groundwork for their impressive growth, with collections leveraged to address our lived experience. Hailing from France with a youth spent in Canada, and belonging to Cameroonian origins, Tchatchoua’s multinational upbringing and the complexities of identity are reflected in his most recent SS25 collection, which features collaborations with the NBA, Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, and Jordan Brand.

Ahead of 3.Paradis’ NBA capsule arriving at HBX, we caught up with the brand’s co-founder and Creative Director, Emeric Tchatchoua, to discuss his sartorial storytelling, life philosophies, sports, and how a pair of BAPE sneakers started it all.

An excerpt from the interview can be found below. Read the interview in its entirety over at HBX Journal.

Your latest SS25 collection discusses questions of individualism, the blurring of borders, and the blending of identities. Do you feel that your multicultural upbringing played a major role in shaping your identity today?

This diverse blend of experiences has deeply enriched my perspective, nurturing a profound appreciation for the unique and the different, and helping me craft a distinct identity. Each piece is a reflection of the diverse and rich experiences that shape me, making the collection a personal and profound expression of my journey.

As part of the collection, you partnered with the NBA on a capsule. What does this collaboration signify within your collection about individualism?

This collaboration embodies the drive to surpass personal boundaries, make a unique mark, and achieve legendary status. It’s a tribute to the spirit of sportsmanship and the global unity that sports can bring, highlighting the power of individuality within a collective context.

Can you explain a little bit about the design elements featured in NBA pieces?

The NBA capsule collection seamlessly merges contemporary fashion with iconic sports aesthetics. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to capture the vibrant energy and cultural depth of basketball while appealing to both athletes and fashion aficionados.

“The designs are a celebration of movement, strength, and the enduring influence of sports on global culture.”

Among the NBA capsule collection, do you have a favorite piece?

The varsity jacket stands out as my favorite piece in the collection. It perfectly encapsulates the blend of classic and modern elements that define the spirit of this collaboration.

Noting recent fashion trends, there’s been a convergence and overlap between sports and fashion.

Absolutely, sports and fashion significantly contribute to individualism and identity. They allow for profound self-expression and authenticity, celebrating personal stories and values. The fusion of these worlds in SS25 exemplifies how style and athleticism together can empower people to define and express their unique identities.

The process of creating the SS25 collection reminded me that growth often comes from stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. I also realized the value of collaboration and how diverse perspectives can enrich the creative process.

You can shop the 3.Paradis x Mitchell & Ness x NBA capsule collection on HBX now. Read the full interview on HBX Journal now.