LeBron James might be one of the most dominant forces to ever play the game of basketball, but the four-time NBA champion has never been shy about sharing his love of U.S. football. If he could've had it his way, he might've suited up for the Ohio State Buckeyes right after high school.
Throughout the years, the Ohio-native has supported the Big Ten member with his fandom and through his Nike, Inc. relationship. The Buckeyes have laced up several modified versions of James' Nike Basketball signature series, bridging the gap between two sports near-and-dear to the 40-year-old. For his latest gift, "the kid from Akron" has tasked his Swoosh collaborators to reimagine his "Grand Opening" LeBron 23 as a U.S. football cleat ready for the gridiron. The pair features the same "White/University Red/Metallic Gold/Black" color scheme found on the basketball sneaker, but changes its materials and layout, overall shape, and sole plate underfoot.
Lastly, the reworked Nike Alpha Menace 4 Elite includes Ohio State's logo on the lateral heel, cementing the connection between James and the Buckeyes program.
Enjoy a closer look at the Player-Exclusive (PE) LeBron 23—which debuts on field against Penn State—ahead. For pairs you can get at retailers, check out House of Heat°'s dedicated Jordan Release Dates Calendar.
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