Updated August 23rd, 2024: Official retailer images of the Nike JA 2 “Stargazer” have surfaced. The shoes are expected to release on October 8th for $120.
WHERE TO BUY
Nike Ja 2 "Purple Sky"
US 10/08/2024 Tuesday
Retailer | Release type | Status |
---|---|---|
Nikestore US | Standard | Check Site |
DICK'S | Standard | Check Site |
Sneaker Politics | Standard | Check Site |
Ja Morant’s second signature shoe with the Swoosh, the Nike JA 2, has just been revealed. This next model isn’t expected to hit retail until the final quarter of 2024.
The first model, the Nike JA 1, officially debuted in early 2023. The nearly 1.5 year gap between the release of the first and second models is relatively wider considering the cadence of introducing new signature models to market, but the delay makes much sense given Morant’s inactivity the last season. This JA 2 “Stargazer” is expected to launch in October to coincide with the start of the 2024-2025 NBA season; many fans will view this upcoming campaign as a fresh start given Morant’s off-the-court troubles followed by his season-ending injury earlier this year.
Despite Morant’s absence from the game, the Nike JA 1 is still a top seller for Nike largely due to his young fanbase as well as the approachable $120 price-point for his shoe.
At first glance, the JA 2 is significantly different from the first model. It’s got a slightly higher cut compared to the low-top JA 1, while the ripple-effect detailing around the Swoosh draws a lot of attention. The midsole design draws quick comparisons to older Kobe models such as the Kobe 5’s signature outrigger and even the Kobe Venomenon.
The heel features a contrast stitch pattern that scoops upward the heel; this particular colorway features a “12 AM” mark. The toe and tongue are built with a breathable sport mesh, with a classic tongue construction offering a bit of a throw-back look. Ja’s mountain peak-inspired logo appears on the tongue, while his signature, which is on the heel of the JA 1, is located at the base of the tongue.
Additional photos of the JA 2 are likely to surface moving forward, so stay tuned for updates.