A new Air Jordan set to be released later this year, which was once thought to be inspired by one of Michael Jordan’s memorable on-court foes, will reportedly instead get its colors from another one of the basketball legend’s rivals — and it’s arguably the most timely team possible.
Originally expected to feature the colors of the Cleveland Cavaliers, the upcoming black, blue and orange Air Jordan 8 Retro is instead said to be inspired by the NBA Finals-bound New York Knicks. With a full colorway of Black/Safety Orange/Racer Blue, a new mock-up shows what to expect when the style arrives at retail this holiday season.
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The new Air Jordan 8 Retro is expected to feature a black nubuck upper with orange accents across the midsole and a mixture of blue, black and orange on the model’s signature abstract print TPU panel. Racer Blue hits will also fill in the hooks of the sneaker’s support straps, while the heel pull tab is filled in with orange.
According to @zsneakerheadz and Sneaker Files, the pair’s specific inspiration comes from the Bulls-Knicks match-up in the 1993 Eastern Conference Finals, which is the same year the Air Jordan 8 was introduced at retail.
Despite the early color confusion, it wouldn’t be unheard of for the Air Jordan 8 to take inspiration from the Cavaliers. In 2012, Nike Inc.’s Jordan Brand issued an Air Jordan 4 in matching shades, which was inspired by the Cleveland team’s ‘90s colors.
The Air Jordan 8 Retro Knicks is currently set to be released on Dec. 24 for a retail price of $215, although it’s possible the exact release date could change between now and then. Availability is expected from Nike’s Snkrs app and select Jordan Brand retailers. The style code for the upcoming release is IX8479-010.