LeBron James made his debut in the 2025-26 NBA season last night against the Utah Jazz, finally giving the world a look of him in his milestone Nike LeBron 23. At the same time, Michigan State Basketball took on Kentucky in the Champions Classic while unveiling an exclusive edition of the shoe.
Clad in a Spartan-friendly green-and-gold color scheme, the modern Nike Basketball signature model features specific nods to the college athletics program at the heel, just as mainline versions of the sneaker commemorate different stories from James' hoops career. Even Coach Tom Izzo laced up the special pair court-side, modeling just how well the gift to the Michigan State team matches with Spartan-related gear.
Earlier in the season, "the kid from Akron" and his Swoosh family gifted Ohio State Football a Player-Exclusive Nike Alpha Menace 4 Elite reimagined as his "Grand Opening" LeBron 23. It's very likely James' 23rd signature model continues to appear throughout college sports.
Enjoy a closer look at the Player-Exclusive (PE) sneaker ahead. For pairs you can get at retailers, check out House of Heat°'s dedicated Jordan Release Dates Calendar.
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