American college basketball star JuJu Watkins makes history with the LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu, becoming the first athlete to co-create a hoop shoe within LeBron James‘ NXXT Gen platform. The release reflects her ascent in the game and LeBron’s continued effort to equip the next generation with the tools required to grow. Together, they introduce a silhouette designed to support pace, control, and command on the court.
SNEAKERS
JuJu shaped the shoe to match the demands of her style of play. She pushes tempo in every possession, and the design responds with a fine-tuned balance of court feel and bounce. The structure allows her to drive downhill and create space for her own shot from distance. Each element contributes to her ability to command the floor with confidence.
Working with LeBron to co-create a first is wild. It’s built for my game, my story. Shaping something to share with the next generation of hoopers means everything. – JuJu Watkins
JuJu collaborated with Nike Basketball designers to prioritize durability, comfort, and cushioning while anchoring the silhouette in a modern aesthetic tied to her upbringing in Watts, Los Angeles. The shoe integrates a full-length Nike React foam midsole that delivers responsiveness for quick cuts. Forefoot Air Zoom units supply bounce for explosive plays. A flexible leather upper combines with durable TPU support underneath to provide cushioning and stability throughout each possession. The midsole and outsole construction deliver a modern yet classic appearance.
Personal design details define the upper. A premium jewel Swoosh anchors the side. Sixteen-millimeter performance laces secure the fit. Double-row stitching reinforces the build. A quilted flower pattern lines the interior collar and tongue. An embroidered “By JuJu” doodle appears on the back of the tongue, marking her authorship of the project.
The Silver Lining launch colorway extends the storytelling. The finish captures JuJu’s relationship with her community and her ability to find light during difficult moments. Each surface bends light in a distinct way, reinforcing the idea that adversity shifts perspective and growth develops in shadowed spaces. Future colorways will honor Watts and her second home at the University of Southern California.
LeBron frames the collaboration as part of his ongoing support for emerging athletes. He views the NXXT Gen platform as a way to equip JuJu with another tool to define her path on and off the court. For him, Nike footwear has long functioned as a channel to share personal narrative with athletes and fans, and working with JuJu extends that platform to a new generation of hoopers. Through this partnership, he recognizes her as a defining force in today’s game and reinforces his continued effort to provide access and opportunity for those coming up behind him.
The LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu launches globally this summer in the Silver Lining colorway at nike.com and select retailers.
