Ja Morant’s Signature Nike Sneakers Sell Out Amid Controversies
Despite recent controversies, the popularity of NBA All-Star Ja Morant’s signature sneakers remains unaffected, as evidenced by their rapid sell-out after release.
Nike introduced the Ja 1 Hunger shoes to the market on Thursday via the SNKRS app, and they were swiftly snapped up by consumers. Morant signed a multi-year contract with Nike in 2019. Yet, his recent misbehavior on social media led some to speculate that the athletic brand might terminate the relationship.
Nike previously stood by Morant during the first controversy surrounding his display of a firearm on social media. Back in March, the Memphis Grizzlies player flaunted a gun on Instagram Live during a visit to a Denver-area strip club, leading to an eight-game suspension from the NBA.
Addressing the incident, Morant stated, “I realize what I have to lose, and for us as a group, what we have to lose. It’s pretty much just that being more responsible, more smarter, and staying away from all the bad decisions.” Following the incident, Morant reportedly entered a counseling program.
Nike’s official statement expressed support for Morant, saying, “We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
However, Morant returned to the headlines this month when he was once again seen displaying a firearm on Instagram Live. Following this second incident, Nike reportedly removed the Ja 1 sneakers from its website.
The situation escalated when Morant posted a series of family photos on his Instagram Story, ending with a post that read “Bye.” This led local police to conduct a welfare check at his Tennessee home. A spokesperson for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to TMZ that Morant was “fine,” explaining to officials that his posts were merely his way of indicating a hiatus from social media.
