Hottest NBA Sneaker Releases of 2025 (and When They Drop)
NBA stars are leaving their mark in signature kicks that turn every hardwood moment into a style statement. This year’s drops bring bold colors, tech upgrades, and some nostalgic tributes. This article takes a look at the best NBA-related sneakers hitting shelves in 2025 and when to expect them.
Nike Kobe 6 Protro ‘Total Orange’ – July 18
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The “Total Orange” Protro is inspired by the bright WNBA hoodie that Kobe wore courtside with his daughter Gigi. It rides on Zoom Air cushioning and keeps that low-top feel agile and court-ready.
Adidas Harden Vol. 9 ‘Dynamo’ – July 26
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James Harden’s latest shoe drops in a bright “Dynamo” colorway with bold neon orange details. The design is eye-catching and built for comfort, featuring Adidas’s bounce cushioning. If you like sneakers that stand out, this pair fits the bill.
Air Jordan 40 ‘The Classic’ – July 12
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Forty years in, and Jordan Brand isn’t slowing down. The Air Jordan 40 debuts with a performance-focused build that’s the first to feature both full-length Zoom Strobel and ZoomX cushioning. “The Classic” colorway keeps things clean and simple.
Adidas D.O.N. Issue 7 ‘Lucid Pink’ – July 12
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Donovan Mitchell continues to carve out space in the Adidas roster with the D.O.N. Issue 7 in a now-signature Lucid Pink color. It’s lightweight, supportive, and made for explosive guards, which echoes Mitchell’s game.
Air Jordan 3 ‘Starfish’ – July 18
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Canvas and suede give the Air Jordan 3 a new feel, while a rich orange color connects back to the popular “Shattered Backboard” aesthetic. Fans of the AJ1 “Starfish” will catch the vibe, but this version brings a sturdier texture to the summer lineup.
Air Jordan 3 ‘Pure Money’ – July 5
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The “Pure Money” Air Jordan 3 returns after a long hiatus, first debuting in 2007. This edition drops with that signature minimalist style. It’s great for the court, but even better for casual usage.
Air Jordan 1 High ‘Self-Expression’ – July 12
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This one’s not just another AJ1; it has a twist—its upper wears away over time to reveal panels in red, blue, and white. The piece is called “Self-Expression,” and the design feels like a tribute to custom culture. The pewter base keeps it versatile while giving curious sneakerheads something to peel back—literally.
Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘Kobe Bryant’ – July 1
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The Kobe-themed AF1 series is expanding with a Triple White drop, dressed up in snakeskin textures and Bryant logos. It’s subtle from afar but is actually designed more for tribute than play, primarily for fans who want to honor Kobe without rocking a full Protro.
Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘NY vs NY’ – July 22
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Every summer, Nike ties the Air Force 1 to its annual New York streetball tournament, and 2025’s version keeps the streak alive. “NY vs NY” celebrates hoop culture with a clean white base, bright accents, and details referencing high school legends who’ve hit these city courts.
Veneda Carter x Nike Air Max Muse – July 17
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While not a performance shoe, this lifestyle release makes the list thanks to Veneda Carter’s fresh influence and NBA styling crossover. As the first women’s Air Max Muse collab, it gives off basketball tunnel-walk energy.
JJJJound x Puma Mostro – July 12
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NBA fits off the court matter just as much these days, and this minimal collaboration proves it. JJJJound’s touch brings suede and understated branding to the Puma Mostro, a sneaker player that has already been spotted rocking during downtime.
Nike Pegasus Premium Mayfly – July 3
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Not every NBA sneaker needs to touch hardwood. The Pegasus Premium borrows its structure from the Mayfly racing model and updates it for long-haul comfort. It’s built to burn miles—not minutes on the clock—and is the kind of tech sneaker that ends up in an NBA player’s offseason rotation.
New Balance 991v2 ‘Grape Sorbet’ – July 3
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The 991v2 gets a playful makeover in green and orange. It offers something more experimental than New Balance. Though not tied to any one player, the 991 line has made low-key appearances on coaching staff and players alike.
New Balance Abzorb 2000 ‘Black/Grey & Silver/Blue’ – July 10
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After selling out on its debut, the Abzorb 2000 is back in two colorways. It’s designed for all-day wear with some retro basketball DNA and is the kind of shoe that’s been getting love from NBA trainers and assistant coaches who prioritize comfort without sacrificing edge.
Cecilie Bahnsen x Asics Gel-Cumulus 16 – July 11
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This is not a basketball shoe in the traditional sense, but its crossover appeal has found a lane in NBA locker rooms. The floral Asics from Cecilie Bahnsen have been spotted in pregame tunnels. Three colorways are dropping, and they combine boutique style with pro-athlete practicality.