Nike Basketball debuts LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu Watkins for Summer 2026

Nike Basketball introduces the LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu, the first signature collaboration within LeBron James’ NXXT Gen platform, designed by USC guard and hoops phenom JuJu Watkins to support her speed, control, and shot creation. The shoe launches globally this summer in the Silver Lining colorway at nike.com and select retailers.

First athlete to co create within the NXXT Gen platform

JuJu Watkins becomes the first athlete to co create a basketball shoe within LeBron’s NXXT Gen platform, marking a new chapter for the line as it expands beyond LeBron’s own signature models. The collaboration positions Watkins as a defining force for the future of the game and reflects LeBron’s commitment to supporting the next generation of athletes.

JuJu Watkins said, “Working with LeBron to co create a first is wild. It’s built for my game, my story. Shaping something to share with the next generation of hoopers means everything.”

LeBron James said, “JuJu is a great ambassador of today’s game, and this shoe gives her one more tool to chart her own path on and off the court. Nike footwear has been another way for me to share my story with athletes and fans around the world, so it’s exciting to share the NXXT Gen platform with JuJu for a shoe that will inspire a new generation of hoopers to put in the work and believe in themselves.”

Performance construction and tech

The LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu features a full length Nike React foam midsole for elite responsiveness on quick cuts, paired with dual forefoot Air Zoom units that deliver bounce for explosive plays with or without the ball. A flexible leather upper combines with durable TPU support underneath to provide cushioning and stability, while the midsole and outsole construction create a modern yet classic look.

Watkins worked alongside Nike Basketball’s design team to emphasize durability, comfort, and cushioning in a silhouette built specifically for her ability to drive downhill and create her own shot from distance. The shoe’s balance of court feel and bounce is tuned to her style of commanding the floor with each touch.

Personal design details and storytelling

JuJu’s personal design touches include a premium jewel Swoosh, 16mm performance laces, double row stitching, a quilted flower pattern on the interior collar and tongue, and an embroidered “By JuJu” doodle on the back of the tongue.

The Silver Lining launch colorway captures JuJu’s ability to turn to her community in Watts, Los Angeles, to find light in difficult moments. Every surface of the shoe bends light differently, reminding athletes that adversity is often just another angle and growth happens in the shadows. Upcoming colorways will pay additional tribute to Watts and her second home at the University of Southern California.

Release details

The LeBron NXXT Gen by JuJu will be available globally in the Silver Lining colorway this summer at nike.com and select retailers. Price and exact release date have not been announced.