Nike LeBron 16 “Minneapolis Lakers” Releasing On April 19th

Ross Dwyer April 19th, 2019 (updated)

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LeBron James and his LA Lakers may be slogging through a frustrating 2018-19 NBA season, but at least Lake Show supporters can now look back to the team’s early days of lore with this new “Minneapolis Lakers” colorway of the Nike LeBron 16. Featuring a palette that was frequently called upon for Kobe Bryant‘s past signature models and inspired by the franchise’s time in the Land Of 10,000 Lakes back in the ’50s, the shoes use a soft grey Battleknit for the upper. Powder blue/gold accents are then applied on the outsole, sockliner, and Swooshes to provide contrast. The Zoom Air cushioning units get in on the homage stylings with a speckled splatter print, the heel tab features embroidered stars, and the King’s signature lion head embellishment on the heel provides another clever nod: the left shoe’s graphic features gold eyes, while the right shoe’s opts instead for blue. “LJ16” and “23” are dashed across the tongue/throat, and LBJ’s number appears again on the insole to complete the look. Although fond memories of George Mikan and Elgin Baylor unfortunately won’t save a lost season — as the Lakers have already been eliminated from playoff contention — you can still look forward to a release on Nike.com April 19th with a price tag of $185 USD.