Ja Morant is ready to kick off the 2024-25 NBA season in full force. Coming off a season-ending injury, Morant has much to prove as he looks to lead his Memphis Grizzlies to the promised land. After the success of his first signature sneaker, the Nike Ja 1, his follow-up, the Ja 2, has been officially unveiled.
After announcing in February that the Nike Ja 2 was on the way, Nike has officially unveiled Morant's second signature silhouette. Built for the next generation of playmakers, the Ja 2 looks to capitalize on the success of its predecessor with updates to take Morant and the sneaker to the next level. Set to debut in September; the Nike Ja 2 maximizes support and comfort to last all season long.
Getting into the technical side of things, the Nike Ja 2 features forefoot Zoom Air, providing extra bounce to aid athletes through quick shifts on the court. A molded midfoot panel locks down control and responsiveness for those who need to make explosive cuts on-and-off defenders. The traction pattern on the bottom of the outsole draws inspiration from semitrailer tires that Morant trained with in his childhood backyard. This trend allows for smoother cuts in transition. The sidewall guardrail on the Nike Ja 2 stabilizes and protects the foot, while ankle padding and a waterfall-inspired collar liner add comfort for all movements. The ballistic mesh on the upper provides breathability.
"From the Ja 1 to the Ja 2, the core things remain the same. The work ethic doesn't change," Morant says. "It's about comfort, more bounce and bringing my fans into some different storytelling they may not know. We tell those stories through the colorways of my shoe."
Speaking of colorways, Ja Morant, Nike's first Gen Z signature athlete, was heavily involved in the creative process for the Ja 2, as he was with the Ja 1. Colorways such as Induction, Stargazer aka Purple Sky, Night Vision, Nightmare, and X-Mas Tree Topper, are some of the pairs already confirmed to release. Expect to see plenty for the Nike Ja 2 as we get into 2025. Kids' exclusive colorways and apparel collections inspired by Morant's style, swagger, and connection to the youth will also come to life through artistic prints and designs.
"In Nike Basketball, we get to work with the world's best athletes, help them be even better on the court and create a canvas to tell stories. We are excited for the world to wear the Ja 2 and to continue to be inspired by his growth and electric style of play," says Josh Wachtel, VP/GM, Global Men's Basketball. "The Ja 2 gives hoopers everything they need — it's bouncy, fast, stable, looks great and is available in kids' sizing to serve the next generation."
The Nike Ja 2 will debut on September 26, 2024, with the Induction colorway via Nike SNKRS and select retailers. The Nike Ja 2 Purple Sky will follow on October 8 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in men’s, gradeschool, and preschool sizing, the retail price is set at $120, $92, and $82, respectively. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
Nike Ja 2 Induction
Nike Ja 2 Purple Sky
In this article
Steve Jaconetta is the Head of Content based out of Connecticut. An encyclopedia for sneaker releases, he's covered the industry for over fifteen years. His stops have included Sole Collector, Complex, and StockX, to name a few. He considers the Air Jordan 11 Concord the greatest sneaker of all time and has a strong affection for 80s pop culture. Email: steve@soleretriever.com
