Sneaker News Devin Booker’s Nike Book 1 PE universe remains vast, pulling in inspiration from his surroundings in Arizona as well as the Phoenix Suns franchise history. Recently, he wore an homage to two-time MVP Steve Nash inspired by the Cradle Rock; now he turns his attention to another prominent member of the storied backcourt.
Although Penny Hardaway’s career didn’t live up to its potential due to injury, he’s had an immeasurable influence in sneaker culture through his signature line as well as his association with the Air Foamposite One. This PE, however, references his fifth signature shoe, the Air Penny V.
Dropping years after the signature athlete’s retirement, the Air Penny V model was unique in that it was designed as a basketball shoe, but mean for off-court wear. Dropping right at the center of Nike Basketball’s stranglehold on the sneaker game, the fifth Penny model released in a variety of trending colorways as well as nods to his past team affiliations. This version references his post-Orlando era when he formed one-half of the star-studded backcourt alongside Jason Kidd.
While there were several Air Penny colorways bearing the Suns thematic, the gradient pattern is the evidence we need to prove that these are in fact a spin off the 2012 release. Booker will be wearing this PE during the Suns/Mavs game this afternoon.
