The hype surrounding the summer premiere of “Space Jam: A New Legacy” is ramping up, and the latest development involves a partnership with Nike relating to a new pair of specially themed LeBron James sneakers seen in the movie.
The official Twitter account of Nike Basketball teased the release of the LeBron 19, which celebrates the Los Angeles Lakers superstar’s star turn in the upcoming film. The new kicks feature a “otherworldly, space-age look,” according to the tweet.
“In designing the LeBron 19, we were definitely guided by what was happening in the film,” said Nike Basketball footwear designer Jason Petrie said of the sneaker, per a news release. “We wanted to give LeBron a brand-new feeling that was synonymous with an otherworldly, space-age kind of look.”
“Space Jam: A New Legacy” producer and longtime James business partner Maverick Carter was also quoted in the release.
“The biggest moment in the movie for our characters is the final game,” Carter said. “It culminates into this epic showdown with real consequences for everyone playing. The game matters. So when a kid sees the characters wearing Nike gear, their imagination makes the connection that Nike gives you the tools to uncover the best version of yourself.”
Nike also unveiled an apparel line and other merchandise inspired by the film. High-resolution images of the merchandise can be viewed on Nike’s website.
It was also revealed on social media Tuesday that the second trailer for the film will premiere on Wednesday.
The LeBron-led “Space Jam” project was in the works for years before filming began in 2019, and to no surprise it generated plenty of excitement among James fans and skepticism from naysayers as the project got underway.
“Space Jam: A New Legacy” will simultaneously premiere in theaters and be streamable on HBO Max on July 16, 2021.
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