PJ Tucker: Top 3 Favorite Sneakers
PJ Tucker is an NBA start and undoubtedly a notable sneakerhead. He not only dons the best basketball sneakers collection, but he is also an avid collector.
While awaiting the game against the Portland Trail Blazers, PJ Tucker hopped on a chat with FN in Portland, Ore; where he went on to reveal his favorite sneakers. “Last time I counted I had over 4,000 pairs of shoes and I have no idea what my collection is worth,” the Houston Rockets baller noted about his collection.
The Nike athlete went on to showcase several classics from the Swoosh and Air Jordans that he owns. Here’s a rundown of his top 3 favorite sneakers.
Nike Air Jordan 3
Nike Air Jordan 3 is a notable Jumpman silhouette that made a debut during Michael Jodan’s 1987-88 NBA season. Tinker Hatfield reintroduced the Jumpman’s signature sneaker line with the first mid-cut basketball kicks. The tumbled leather coupled with the elephant skin print established the Nike Air Jordan three as an on and off-court footwear.
Jordan 3 was iconic since its release and not just because of its great performance, comfort, and style. It’s behind the scene was something too.
See, In 1987, Michael Jordan’s contract with the sportswear giant was up for renegotiation. The Jordan 2nd reiteration had a lukewarm reception which put the Jordan and Nike collaboration on the rocks. There was also pressure to make a hit with the next release.
The lead shoe architects had left amidst this crisis which saw Tinker Hatfield – the then Nike’s corporate architect – step up to the plate. The legendary designer worked with the in-house team, interviewed ballers to determine their expectations, and more. The result was a sneaker that would pay dividends for years.
In short, Tinker nailed the Air Jordan 3 and also convinced Mike to extend his contract with Nike.
The mid-cut basketball sneaker was poetry in motion while the added Visible Air to the sole was revelatory.
The design was inspired by Michael Jordan’s flamboyant style, his new logo, and “elephant print”, which gave the sneaker some unbeatable telegenic presence.
Besides, the Air Jordan 3 introduced a bold era. The Jumpman earned his first MVP nomination and the resulting cult campaign laid the cultural foundations for his superhero persona.
As such, the kicks are regarded by many sneakerheads (including PJ Tucker) as the quintessential Jordan. So why not grab yourself a pair here at an affordable price?
Eminem x Air Jordan 4 “Encore”
Dressed in a Red, Blue, and Black color scheme, the Air Jordan 4 designers partnered with Eminem to pay tribute to his 2004 album, Encore.
The suede upper has some mesh panels on the forefront and sidewall to ensure breathability. This is complemented by a leather accent on the midsole, tongue, and laces. Added to that is a partially encapsulated Air unit in the midsole to provide contrast and cushioning. The kick is completed with “Eminem” stitched on the tongues.
Eminem x Air Jordan 4 “Encore” is an in-demand and highly coveted sneaker. That can be attributed to their great performance, traction, support, comfort, and style; but it’s also largely due to its release in limited editions.
For instance, the blue referential colorway was up for grabs in 2017, and only 23 pairs were available. Once the drawing was conducted, the shoe was given to a few shoppers and Eminem’s friends and family. Luckily, such drawings are free and easy to join giving you a chance to buy a pair of exclusive, on-demand shoes for just $100. Imagine buying the Eminem x Air Jordan 4 “Encore” that’s values at $45 000 (USD) at $100 (USD).
LeBron 8 Low “LeBronald Palmer”
Lebron 8 Low “LeBronald Palmer” is offered in men sizing ranging from size 8.5 to 12. It has a snug fit that is enabled by the frontal lace-up closure. The kick is made of leather, which is responsive to the shape of your feet.
Generally, this sneaker exhibits a nice, fashion-forward style. It’s an on or off-court casual wear that features an upper that combines suede and leather to form durable footwear. It’s embellished with diamond detailing and metallic gold accents. The lace tag features the James LeBron logo. In short, the kick takes into account the modern living style to allow the wearer to easily “steal” LeBron’s style. The shoe pairs well with jeans.
Its notable features lie in its fashion-forward style that’s amplified by the gold and diamond detailing on different parts of the footwear.
The Nike LeBron 8 Low has rubber tire tread designs on its toe box and heel. This provides the much-needed traction on the hardwood. This mid-top sneaker has tonal colorways inspired by the Cleveland Cavaliers, which pair well with jeans.
Just like its predecessor, the kicks feature a full-length Air Max cushioning for the midsole. This cushioning is specifically designed for Basketball. The Max bag contains 80% more air and provides adequate comfort for on and off-court activities. Added to that is a foam midsole that delivers plush cushioning underfoot.
As noted earlier, the rubber sole provides adequate traction. To take it a notch higher, the team behind LeBron 8 added a herringbone traction pattern to allow a smooth change in direction. As such, you can easily make quick cuts.
The closure system features a mid-top silhouette that employs the Flywire technology to increase support and lockdown. And as noted, the lace-up closure provides a customizable fit.
While the outer materials ensure support and durability, the lining and padded collar unite to provide a comfortable and soft feel.
PJ Tucker is a notable sneakerhead and not just in the NBA league; his casual footwear collection is admirable. Fortunately, it’s easy for his fans to steal his style – as it’s all in the shoes, the shoes!
Become a True PJ Tucker Fan and Get His Favorite Kicks
All you have to do is purchase one or more Tucker’s favorite kicks and pair it with your favorite attire (be it sporty or otherwise). And to narrow down the options further for you, you can start with the Nike Air Jordan 3; they are his personal favorites.
Looking for more of the tea on the top celebs favorite kicks? Read our ultimate list for 2021 here.
