Nike LeBron 23 "Grand Opening" Inspired by James' First Shoe

Nike Basketball has officially unveiled the LeBron 23, the latest design in LeBron James' signature sneaker line. To celebrate the milestone, the Swoosh has drawn inspiration from 23 legacy-defining moments in the NBA veteran's career, promising to bring them to life through the all-new sneaker. The "Grand Opening" pair recalls the 18-year-old's first NBA game—specifically the shoes he wore.

Clad in a predominantly white-and-red color scheme, the LeBron 23 "Grand Opening" references the Air Zoom Generation 1 James laced up on Oct. 29, 2003 as the Cleveland Cavaliers faced the Sacramento Kings. The AZG was effectively the Nike LeBron 1 and has since been reissued in a number of original colorways.

Although LeBron James' 23rd signature model differs in build and technology from its predecessor, the "Grand Opening" style draws some parallels between both designs. The Crown Containment System that wraps around the sneaker opts for a "knit" red finish, working in-tandem with the white ornate textile above to create the two-tone presentation seen on the original Air Zoom Generation. Golden lateral swooshes are rooted in the Forever King Collection's grandeur. Retro LJ23 emblems land on the medial side and spine, further connecting the modern performance model to the past. The outsole opts for a semi-translucent icy look, while the collar's inner lining includes 10-29-2003 embroidery to remember James' first NBA game.

Firm Nike.com release details for the "Grand Opening" basketball shoe have yet to be confirmed by the brand, but that's expected to change soon. In the meantime, enjoy detailed shots of the pair by Instagram user @conkeror21.

For more sneaker news from the Swoosh empire, check out all Jordan releases remaining in the year (and some confirmed for 2026).