Victor Wembanyama had a special pair of sneakers on hand for the San Antonio Spurs’ first home game of the NBA regular season.

Ahead of the Saturday match-up against the Houston Rockets, Wembanyama was photographed with a customized version of his go-to Nike GT Hustle 3 sneakers. Referencing both his 2024 Rookie of the Year award and his well-documented fandom of the “Star Wars” franchise, Wembanyama’s “Wookiee of the Year” GT Hustle 3s were inspired by the furry Wookiee species which populate the films. 

Like their Wookiee inspiration, the Nike GT Hustle 3s were draped in a shaggy brown and black fur which covered nearly the entire upper. Further customization included an alien face on the tongue – a nod to Wembanyama’s extraterrestrial comparisons – and “ROY 24” (Rookie of the Year) printed on the heel 

Surprisingly, Wembanyama didn’t end up wearing the shaggy sneakers in the tunnel, nor did he lace them up for on-court action against the Rockets. Instead, the 7’3” French star wore a more standard white-based colorway of the sneaker. Built with double-stacked Zoom Air cushioning, the GT Hustle 3 is considered one of Nike’s top performing basketball shoes of the moment. Although not a signature shoe, Wembanyama has been marketed as the face of the model in promotional materials.

In April, Nike held its  A.I.R. (Athlete Imagined Revolution) exhibition in Paris which featured experimental concept designs including an AI-designed prototype created specifically for Wembanyama’s foot. 

As for the game, the Spurs inched by with a 109-106 finish to tally their first win of the season. Wembanyama led the way for the team with 29 points and added 7 rebounds.

Given its impracticality for performance use, it’s highly unlikely this “Wookiee of the Year” version of the Nike GT Hustle 3 will be released to the public. However, other styles of the GT Hustle 3 sneaker are available now from nike.com for $190 each.

The Best Sneakers From 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend

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Star Wars‘ pun-driven annual holiday is getting an assist from Adidas and a Japanese art gallery for a collection of three sneakers releasing this week.

Nanzuka has been tapped to curate the three-way collaboration featuring the Superstar XLG, NMD_R1 and Stan Smith models. All three sneakers take distinct approaches in pulling from different Star Wars characters, though they do all share an aversion to color.

The Superstar XLG, a remix of the classic shell-toed sneaker with oversized proportions, sees its upper taken over by an original artwork from Hiroki Tsukuda depicting C-3P0 and R2-D2. Translucent black stripes allow the piece to be seen uninterrupted beneath.

A white and cream Stan Smith takes a more minimalist approach with a cartoonish grey Stormtrooper debossed near the heel and designed by the artist James Jarvis. The only other signifiers come through a subtle Star Wars logo debossed on the suede tongue and a co-branded insole.

Rounding out the trio is a an all-black NMD_R1 with glossy overlays that depict Darth Vader’s mask above the toes. The black-on-black look means one could easily miss out on the motif, and an easter egg appears on the heel in the form of red “Most Impressive” text calling out the quote from his first duel with Luke Skywalker in “The Empire Strikes Back.”

All three Star Wars x Nanzuka x Adidas sneakers will release May 4 for Star Wars Day — “May the fourth be with you” — but the Superstar XLG may be the only one dropping stateside, as its the lone of the three to appear on Adidas’ website. That sneaker is priced at $150, and the other two may end up as Japan-exclusives.

About the Author:

Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.

Crocs has tapped “Star Wars” for its latest collaboration. The footwear brand and the classic movie franchise have come together to release a footwear collection for men, women and kids who love the film and its iconic characters.

The collection, now available at Famous Footwear, is comprised of four different designs for adults and two different styles for kids. Included in the collection are the Star Wars Off Court Clog and the Star Wars Darth Vader Classic Slide Sandal for adults. Additionally, the Stars Wars Grogu Classic Clog and the Star Wars Chewbacca Classic Lined Clog are available for men, women and children.

Crocs isn’t the only brand that has released a Star Wars collection recently. In April 2023, Kith tapped “Star Wars” for an apparel and accessories capsule inspired by the 40th anniversary of “The Return of the Jedi.”

Similarly to the Kith x “Star Wars” collaboration, the Crocs x “Star Wars” collab dropped ahead of May 4th, which is the unofficial holiday for the famous movie franchise.

Crocs’ “Stars Wars” collaboration is expected to aid the company with revenue, which is part of its longterm plan to reach $5 billion in sales by 2026. “We absolutely still firmly believe the Crocs is a scale business and can easily be $5 billion,” Crocs’ Chief Executive Officer Andrew Rees said during a recent conference call regarding the company’s fourth quarter and full year fiscal 2023. “Looking at the pillars that we’re using to drive that growth, which are Asia, digital, clogs, sandals and personalization, we see solid progress against all of those pillars.”

The Crocs x “Star Wars” collaboration is available via famousfootwear.com as well as select stores and currently ranges from $29.98 to $74.99.

Columbia is returning to a galaxy far, far away for its latest “Star Wars” collaboration.

“This collaboration balances ‘Star Wars’ design with the performance and durability Columbia is known for,” said Matt Merriman, Columbia VP of brand development and partnerships, in a statement. “These are not costume replicas. Rather, our product team took inspiration from Luke Skywalker’s iconic flight suit and created a fully equipped ski collection built to withstand the elements. It is that mash-up that we find interesting. The styles are as functional as they are beautiful.”

Launching on Dec. 1, the outdoor brand’s new Skywalker Pilot collection takes inspiration from protagonist Luke Skywalker’s signature orange flight suit, seen throughout Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars” movies — and complete with detailing like insulated collars and spaceship accents from the sci-fi franchise’s universe. A key piece in the $40 to $500 line is its ski suit: a thermal, waterproof $500 one-piece that includes “Star Wars” graphics in its lining.

Similar cold weather-worthy pieces include a $350 pilot jacket and $200 lightweight jacket, each complete with thermal-reflective lining.

Rounding out the clothing range is a pullover sweatshirt with back graphics in hues of orange and gray, as well as a printed cotton-blend T-shirt in both long-sleeved and short-sleeved silhouettes — cast in similar dark orange and cream tones. The line’s additional assortment includes a textured baseball cap inspired by Skywalker’s helmet, as well as an adjustable logo-accented crossbody bag and a pair of ski goggles with two sets of interchangeable lenses.

The collection will be initially revealed on Nov. 5, the same week that Columbia ambassador Bubba Wallace will race a version of Skywalker’s Red Five X-wing Starfighter at the Phoenix Raceway in a Columbia ensemble — which includes detailing inspired by “Star Wars.” All pieces from the collection itself will be live online on Dec. 1 on Columbia’s website, as well as select Columbia stores. You can also view the full list of worldwide Columbia retail stores carrying the collection on the brand’s website.

Columbia has released a range of “Star Wars” capsule collections since 2016, featuring outerwear, clothing and more inspired by the sci-fi universe’s films and television, including “Star Wars 5: The Empire Strikes Back,” “The Mandalorian” and “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” 

About the Author:

Aaron Royce is the Digital Editor for Footwear News, where he writes stories on trending news, celebrity style, collaborations and in-depth profile interviews. Prior to joining Footwear News, Aaron wrote and interned for publications including PAPER, Grazia and the Daily Front Row. He currently holds a B.S. in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Bubba Wallace Debuts His Signature BW Collection for Columbia Sportswear

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Crocs is heading to outer space with its latest cinematic collaboration, thanks to “Star Wars.”

The FNAA-winning brand’s newest iteration of its Classic Clog shoe, which will be available in grade school boys’ sizing, focuses on Chewbacca, the furry brown Wookie that accompanied Han Solo on intergalactic missions in the sci-fi franchise.

The resulting $60 clogs, which will drop on Foot Locker on Sept. 22, feature dark brown soles, with their signature round-toed foam uppers cast a deep brown hue printed with a Wookie fur pattern.

Both the shoe’s upper front and adjustable heel straps are accented with light gray squares, as well, arranged in geometric lines in homage to Chewbacca’s silver bandolier — a constant accessory worn by the character throughout the “Star Wars” films.

The pair is finished with fluffy light brown lining for a cozy touch. In addition to the new themed clogs, Foot Locker’s site appeared to feature a coordinating pack of Jibbitz charms, as well; though no announcement has currently been made, the imagery of the shoes sees at least one of the removable rubber accents shaped like Chewbacca himself.

Crocs’ Chewbacca-themed “Star Wars” collaboration marks its latest co-branded launch of 2023. This year, the label has joined forces with a wide range of brands and celebrities to release co-branded shoes and capsule collections, including Monster Cereals, Palace, Aries and Taco Bell. 

In other Crocs news, the brand also announced Lil Nas X as its newest global brand ambassador in June, complete with a campaign where the musician modeled its recent lineup of heeled and platform-soled clogs.

About the Author:

Aaron Royce is the Digital Editor for Footwear News, where he writes stories on trending news, celebrity style, collaborations and in-depth profile interviews. Prior to joining Footwear News, Aaron wrote and interned for publications including PAPER, Grazia and the Daily Front Row. He currently holds a B.S. in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University.

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With the 40th anniversary of “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” here, the collection will launch on Star Wars Day, an unofficial holiday celebrated by fans on May 4. The date is spoken as May the 4th, a nod to the famous Obi-Wan Kenobi phrase “May the force be with you.”

Standouts in the collection include the Anniversary Varsity Jacket, Jedi Varsity Jacket, Stormtrooper Coaches Jacket and the C-3PO Quarter Zip pull-over. The range is replete with accessories and decorative household goods such as cookie jars, wall posters and wall clocks.

To celebrate the launch of the “Star Wars” x Kith collection, Kith will host a special event at the Village East by Angelika Theater in New York on May 3. The brand will debut the “Star Wars” collection one-day early with a full takeover of the theater that will evoke the spirit of when “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” debuted in 1983. Tickets to attend are free and will only be available via drawings exclusively on the Kith app. The drawings will go live on April 29 at 9 a.m. ET and will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on April 30. Attendees will be selected on May 1 and will be notified via email and on the Kith app.

Kith founder, CEO and creative director Ronnie Fieg expressed his excitement about the collaboration and the impact “Star Wars” had on his life growing up.

“I love cinema, and some of my favorite memories are going to the theater with my friends growing up. Movies have shaped the way I see the world, and Star Wars especially has had a major impact on me. Being able to reimagine illustrations, graphics, and characters from their archive through my lens has been a dream come true,” Fieg said in a statement.

Paul Gitter, EVP of global brand commercialization at The Walt Disney Company, said via statement that the new “Star Wars” x Kith “Return of the Jedi” collection will give fans a nostalgic feel.

“Collaborating with Ronnie and the Kith team across multiple Disney brands has allowed us to expand our storytelling and product offerings to today’s cultural pioneers,” Gitter said in a statement. “‘Return of the Jedi’ is a film that is a vital part of the ‘Star Wars’ identity, and Kith has captured the essence of this iconic film through a collection that is simultaneously nostalgic and modern, appealing to both global ‘Star Wars’ fans and Kith consumers.”

The “Star Wars” x Kith “Return of the Jedi” collection releases on May 4 at all Kith shops, 11 a.m. CET on EU.Kith.com, 11 a.m. ET on Kith.com and the Kith app. The line will also release at Kith’s shop-in-shops at Bergdorf Goodman, Hirshleifers and Selfridges.

PHOTOS: Discover Kith’s Miami Design District flagship store in the gallery.

About the Author:

Ashley Rushford is the Digital Editor for Footwear News. She writes and edits stories about celebrity style, the latest fashion trends, shoe releases and exclusive interviews. Ashley received her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies from Rutgers University and has written for publications like Essence Magazine and Black Enterprise.

The actress attended a studio panel for the iconic film and revealed her starring role in the new “Star Wars: The Acolyte.” “The Acolyte” will take place outside the Skywalker Saga era. It is set at the end of the High Republic, the period being explored and is expected to delve into the dark side of the Force like never before.

The “White Noise” star wore a vibrant red dress for the occasion. The piece featured a deep V-neckline, belted waist and dramatic pleated midi skirt.

To amp up her look, Turner-Smith accessorized with dangling earrings, a choker necklace and statement rings. Sticking to a bold style moment, she added purple eyeshadow and a glossy neutral pout.

Giving her look a futuristic touch, Turner-Smith slipped into a pair of silver metallic boots. The pointy silhouette featured a sharp, triangular toe and sat atop a thin stiletto heel. Boots are an essential shoe style to have in your wardrobe. They provide endless versatility and give any outfit a sealed touch.

Turner-Smith made her acting debut in Lena Waithe’s “Queen and Slim” alongside Daniel Kaluuya. Since then, the entertainer has become a fashion fixture on the red carpet often delivering captivating looks and attention-grabbing styles on the red carpet. She never refrains from making bold style statements by constantly embracing vibrant shades and striking silhouettes. Turner-Smith’s follows suit as she tends to gravitate towards embellished platforms, strappy sandals, lace-up boots and sharp heels.

PHOTOS: See how high heels have evolved through the years.

The “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” actress attended the event outfitted in a bright red sleeveless maxi-length dress featuring a bodycon fit. The dress’ bodice had a mock neckline followed by a large bow adornment that sat to one side. The skirt was plain with a simple straight up and down appearance that stopped just above her ankles, showing off her shoes.

On the accessories front, Ridley wore all gold jewelry comprised of geometric stud earrings encrusted with diamonds worn with eclectic rings. The British thespian wore her dark hair gelled down in a dramatic side part worn in an updo with sweeping bangs artfully splayed out.

When it came to shoes, the “Spiderman 2” star opted for a pair of peachy pink pumps. The footwear featured sharp pointed toes and a shiny patent leather finish. The pair sat on stiletto heels totaling at least 3 inches in height. Ridley’s pumps elevated her look with a monochrome finish while adding a slick element.

Pumps like Ridley’s pair are a closet staple, able to bring instant sharpness to ensembles ranging from casual to formal. The most popular styles often feature leather or suede uppers with stiletto heels, as seen in new pairs by L’Agence, Brother Vellies and Sam Edelman. In addition to Cox, stars like Zendaya, Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber have also worn sleek pumps by Christian Louboutin, Burberry and Saint Laurent in recent weeks.

PHOTOS: Take a look at Daisy Ridley’s bets shoe style moments. 

Styled by Julie Ragolia, the “Narcos” actor was outfitted in a dapper Gucci ensemble comprised of a pastel canary yellow button-down featuring billowing sleeves. The brightly colored button-down was layered underneath a brighter yellow knit sweater worn draped over the Chilean thespian’s shoulders, giving off a studious vibe.

On bottom, Pascal sported gray pleated trousers with wide legs and a tailored fit. Smart and stylish, the “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” star wore Andy Wolf black thick-framed glasses in a deep cherry-colored hue.

Sticking to the classics, Pascal stepped onto the carpet in a classic pair of black dress shoes with thin black laces, the leather footwear offering the “Game of Thrones” star a wide range of movement while traversing the flash of cameras. The formal footwear included short squared heels and a streamlined silhouette with a glossy patent leather finish.

The reliable style is a closet staple for many men, Pascal included, for its versatility and comfort. Unlike loafers, leather dress shoes are worn for more formal occasions including attending high-profile red-carpet events.

Pascal has become a major player in Hollywood as of late, owning the limelight in classic silhouettes with colorful touches from top brands like Gucci, Acne Studios, Prada and Loewe, among others. From hits like “The Last of Us” to “Saturday Night Live,” Pascal has been taking over television screens and doing so stylishly.

Disney+’s “The Mandalorian” tells the story of a lone gunfighter making his way through the outer reaches of the lawless galaxy after the fall of the Galactic Empire. The television show features a star-studded cast of characters from Gina Carano and Rosario Dawson to Giancarlo Esposito among others.

PHOTOS: See all of the celebrity arrivals at the “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” premiere. 

This week, Ground Up unveiled a 22-style collection on the e-commerce site, consisting of shoes for adults and kids that feature many of most popular characters from The Walt Disney Co. family.

Naturally, the lineup includes Mickey Mouse and the Disney Princesses. Representing the Pixar universe are Lightning McQueen from “Cars” and the whole cast of “Toy Story 4,” including Woody, Buzz, Jessie and Bo Peep.

Fans of “Star Wars” and “The Mandalorian,” meanwhile, will be quick to spot Grogu (aka “baby Yoda”) on several styles. And just in time for the holidays, Ground Up is offering looks featuring Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

The characters adorn a variety of casual styles, including slip-ons, lace-up sneakers and high-tops that come in toddler, little kid and adult sizing. And just for kids and toddlers, there are also cushioned sport slides with back straps that offer added security.

Retail prices for the line range from $20 for the toddler slides to $60 for the adult high-top sneakers.

Ground Up has been creating licensed footwear for many major entertainment and consumer brands since 2016, working behind the scenes manufacturing shoes for Disney, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros. and others.

But last year, the company stepped out into the limelight by creating product under its own name. After debuting its very first line with Journeys in February 2021, the company has since partnered with Saks Fifth Avenue, Kids Foot Locker and now Zappos.