Over the years, the NBA’s Christmas Day games have become synonymous with extraordinary sneaker debuts, showcasing some of the most creative and memorable footwear moments in basketball history. This festive extravaganza not only highlights players’ on-court performances but also their flair for style and innovation with exclusive and often holiday-themed sneakers. Join us as we explore some of the most iconic Christmas Day NBA sneakers that have left an indelible mark on both the sport and sneaker culture.
12. Dwight Howard’s Adidas TS Bounce Commanders “Superman” (2008)
Dwight Howard channeled his alter ego, Superman, in special Adidas TS Bounce Commanders during the 2008 Christmas Day games. This marked one of the early instances of NBA players debuting unique, themed sneakers on Christmas, a tradition that continues today. Howard’s Superman-inspired shoes were a standout moment in NBA sneaker history.
11. Marcus Morris’ Custom Air Jordan 11s “Snowflakes and Snowmen” (2017)
Marcus Morris debuted a festive pair of custom Air Jordan 11s on Christmas Day in 2017. The shoes featured a white mesh and leather upper with a graphic patent overlay showcasing snowflakes, snowmen, and shamrocks. This unique design made his sneakers stand out as one of the most memorable Christmas Day kicks.
10. LeBron James’ Nike x KITH LeBron 15 “Rose Gold” (2017)
LeBron James debuted the KITH x Nike LeBron 15 “Rose Gold” on Christmas Day in 2017. This exclusive colorway features a rose pink upper with a rose gold zipper, revealing a white leather tongue with the inscription “KITH x Nike LeBron 15” and “Long Live The King.” The shoe was part of the “Three Kings” pack created in partnership with KITH and Ronnie Fieg, and it officially released on December 30, 2017.
9. Nike Kobe 6 “Reverse Grinch”
The Kobe 6 “Reverse Grinch,” released in December 2023, is a bold reinterpretation of the iconic Kobe 6 “Grinch” colorway. This version flips the vibrant green and crimson hues, creating a fresh, eye-catching design that pays homage to one of Kobe Bryant’s most celebrated sneakers. It quickly became a must-have for sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike.
8. Iman Shumpert’s Adidas Crazy 2 “Bad Dreams” (2014)
Iman Shumpert showcased the Adidas Crazy 2 “Bad Dreams” in 2014, part of Adidas’ festive collection featuring glow-in-the-dark soles. Although injured and unable to play, Shumpert wore these sneakers during pregame warmups, making them a memorable Christmas Day debut.
7. LeBron James’ Nike LeBron 11 “Christmas” (2013)
LeBron James debuted the Nike LeBron 11 “Christmas” in 2013, featuring a festive green upper adorned with snowflake graphics. This holiday-themed sneaker was part of the NBA’s Christmas Day games and showcased LeBron’s signature style. The shoe’s unique design made it a standout during the holiday season .
6. Kevin Durant’s Nike Zoom KD 5 “Christmas” (2012)
Kevin Durant debuted the Nike Zoom KD 5 “Christmas” in 2012, featuring a festive Hyper Blue, Altitude Green, Photo Blue, and Chilling Red colorway. This limited-edition sneaker was part of Nike’s holiday lineup and originally retailed for $90. Today, it can be found on resale platforms like StockX for around $150.
5. Ray Allen’s Air Jordan 18 and Air Jordan 20 “Christmas” PEs (2012)
Ray Allen debuted his festive “Christmas” PEs of the Air Jordan 18 and Air Jordan 20 in 2012. These special editions featured holiday-inspired colorways, making them standout on the court. Allen, the longest-running Jordan Brand athlete, showcased these unique sneakers during the Christmas games, adding to their allure.
4. LeBron James’ Nike LeBron 9 “Christmas” (2011)
LeBron James debuted the Nike LeBron 9 “Christmas” in 2011, featuring a sport red, reflect silver, white, and lucky colorway. This festive shoe was released on December 26, 2011, with a retail price of $170. Today, it can be found for around $250.
3. Kobe Bryant’s Nike Zoom Kobe 7 “Christmas” (2011)
Kobe Bryant’s Nike Zoom Kobe 7 “Christmas” debuted on Christmas Day in 2011. This limited-edition sneaker features a vibrant “Violet Pop/Volt-Ink-Action Red” colorway. With a retail price of $180, it remains a sought-after collector’s item. Only a few pairs are available on resale platforms like StockX.
2. Kobe Bryant’s Nike Zoom Kobe 6 “Grinch” (2010)
Kobe Bryant’s Nike Zoom Kobe 6 “Grinch” debuted on Christmas Day 2010, featuring a vibrant green and red colorway inspired by Dr. Seuss’s Grinch. Initially priced at $130, the shoe has since become a collector’s item, with prices ranging from $750 to $1,400.
1. Michael Jordan’s Air Jordan 13s (1997)
Michael Jordan debuted the iconic Air Jordan 13s on Christmas Day in 1997. The white, true red, and black edition became an instant classic, especially after being featured in the Spike Lee-directed film “He Got Game” in 1998. Jordan scored 24 points in a win over the Miami Heat while wearing these shoes.
Conclusion
The NBA Christmas Day sneakers have continually pushed the boundaries of design, blending performance with festivity and leaving sneakerheads eagerly anticipating each year’s new releases. From Michael Jordan’s iconic Air Jordan 13s to Kobe Bryant’s legendary ‘Grinch’ Kobe 6s, these shoes have transcended the court, finding a place in the hearts of fans and collectors alike. As players continue to celebrate this tradition of sneaker debuts, we can look forward to many more magical moments and innovative designs in the years to come.