Jordan Why Not? x Converse Pack: A new chapter in athlete sneaker collabs

Recently Jordan Brand has announced its upcoming sneaker release with Houston Rockets superstar Russell Westbrook as a collaboration with Converse entitled the “Why Not?” x Converse Pack.

The multi-sneaker release is set to feature an Air Jordan 16 with a Chuck 70, two of which Westbrook has expressed as being his favorite sneakers models. It should also be noted that the Chuck 70 has been one of Westbrook’s go-to sneakers in his infamous tunnel outfits throughout the NBA season pre and post-bubble.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Sheesh 😎! Tag someone who would rock this fit! @russwest44 #nbafashionfits

A post shared by Fashion Fits (@nbafashionfits) on Sep 12, 2020 at 3:57pm PDT

The details on the shoes draw from many of Westbrook’s inspirations as it features embroidered chains on the upper of both sneakers.

The design’s multi-faceted inspiration is influenced by Westbrook’s gritty play on the court, his love for leather jackets as well as chain nets that have historically been found on basketball courts within inner-city neighborhoods across America.

The sentiment that lies within the details of the sneakers’ design remains on-brand with Westbrook’s clothing line Honor The Gift, which was established in 2016. Serving as a representation of the hard work, resilience, and ambition of inner-city kids who strive for greatness to achieve their dreams regardless of the hardships they are faced with.

A unique aspect of the release is the inclusion of a Converse sneaker considering the fact that Westbrook is signed as a Jordan Brand athlete.

Of course, this is justified as the Jordan brand is under Nike’s umbrella, but this leaves a lot to question about the future of sneaker collaborations with JB athletes on sneaker models that aren’t strictly performance-based.

Russell Westbrook’s Jordan Why Not? X Converse pack is set to release on SNKRS and select sneaker retailers on October 2nd. What do you make of this release?

Do you think this pack will mark a new chapter for basketball athletes regarding lifestyle sneaker collaborations?