LaMelo Ball's PUMA MB.04 Low Undergoes A Metamorphosis

LaMelo Ball might've been missing at the recent NBA All-Star Weekend, but the Charlotte Hornets guard is a star. His signature series with PUMA Hoops has also dominated the basketball footwear scene, delivering a comfortable, reliable ride in color combinations equally as bold as athlete's play.

The latest MB.04, which appears in a low version, by the German sportswear giant arrives in a punchy blue color scheme reminiscent of previous "Buzz City" releases inspired by the Hornets. The pair, however, abandons the vibrant purple and playful insect logo found on its predecessors, ruling out the possibility of another Charlotte-inspired shoe. Close inspection of the engineered mesh upper reveals a peculiar circular pattern that adds another tally to Ball's out-of-this-world offerings.

Since the original PUMA MB.01 dropped in December 2021, the series has played into the idea that LaMelo Ball is "not from here." At every level of the game, the California-native has proven that his skillset and on-court swagger is too ridiculous for earth, positioning him as some other-worldy force. The NITROFOAM™-cushioned sneaker is laden with references to this very notion, but the gradient pattern throughout the upper might also contribute to the idea. While unconfirmed, it evokes imagery of the metamorphosis certain insects undergo. Perhaps the pair, then, is inspired by Ball transforming into a new version of the same beast.

Enjoy official photos of the blue-covered MB.04 Low below. Expect pairs to hit PUMA.com throughout summer for $135.

Outside of the basketball space, a new Harry Potter x PUMA collection is on the way.