Official Images // Nike Ja 1 "No Smoke"

First baptized as the "No Smoke" edition, this provocative catchphrase "We Ain’t Ducking No Smoke" previously adorned this new Ja 1 silhouette, resonating with Ja Morant’s fearless retort during the Memphis Grizzlies' face-off against the Minnesota Timberwolves. But a tactical pivot amidst the recent tumult surrounding Morant, this phrase has been supplanted by a signature panel covering the heel in true censorship style.

The iteration, steeped in monochromatic majesty, echoes a narrative of defiance and aplomb. The construction portrays a 'night engulfed' theme, where the inky blackness of the mesh upper is only interrupted by the contrasting yellow and grey hues on the tongue tabs and insole logos.

Amidst the stark black, the TPU profile swooshes dance with a cloudy grey marbling, evoking the imagery of smoke wafting through a stark night sky. This visual poetry continues onto the lateral side of the near-white heel counter, where Ja’s signature phrase was once envisaged, now replaced by his autograph, inscribing a personal touch onto the narrative.

Further diving into the aesthetics, a clad-cream treatment is meticulously infused into the sole unit, reminiscent of the innovative design witnessed in the Off-White-inspired Nike KD 15 PEs, adding a touch of contemporary finesse to the overall ensemble.

Scheduled to make a grand entrance on Nike.com on October 6th, the Nike Ja 1 "No Smoke" will likely be one of the season's most talked about Nike Hoops drops.

Until then, enjoy an official look at the release below.