Sneak peek alert: Rumored images of the Nike JA 2 surface on social media

Bouncy and explosive point guard Ja Morant burst onto the NBA scene with a wave of excitement and anticipation. Selected as the second overall pick in the prestigious 2019 NBA Draft, Morant displayed glimpses of superstar talent, drawing comparisons to legendary floor generals such as Russell Westbrook, Derrick Rose, and John Wall. True to form, Morant exceeded expectations set by his most fervent fans, claiming the NBA Rookie of the Year title in 2020 and later being honored as the NBA Most Improved Player in 2022 as the cornerstone of the Memphis Grizzlies franchise.

As one of the NBA's most promising young talents, it was hardly unexpected that Ja Morant would end up securing a lucrative endorsement deal. In 2019, just as Ja Morant was on the cusp of entering the NBA, he inked a deal with Nike, widely recognized as the premier sportswear and athleisure brand in the industry. The highly anticipated debut of Morant's first signature sneaker with Nike, aptly named the Nike JA 1, took place during NBA All-Star Weekend in February 2023.

The Nike JA 1 received a positive response from both everyday wearers and expert reviewers. Priced around the low to mid-$100 range, the shoe delivered impressive on-court performance, making it a great value for its budget-friendly price tag. While it didn't receive top marks as the best available option on the market, the Nike JA 1 still made a strong debut as a signature sneaker, exceeding expectations in its initial release. Thus, many were intrigued to see where the Nike and Ja Morant partnership would go next with a future Nike JA 2 model.

More than a year after the initial Nike JA 1 drop, rumors surrounding the next chapter in the Nike JA line have resurfaced. As initially reported by SoleRetriever.com, fans have seen images of the Nike JA 2 for the first time, in a striking new colorway dubbed "Stargazer".

The Nike JA 2's rumored "Stargazer" colorway takes a celestial approach, evoking a galactic aesthetic.

The Nike JA 2 boasts a distinct design departure from its predecessor, the JA 1. Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that this newer model features a slightly higher cut than its low-top counterpart. One of the most striking design elements is the ripple-effect detailing surrounding the iconic Swoosh logo, which demands attention and sets the shoe apart. The midsole design, meanwhile, pays homage to earlier Kobe models, such as the Kobe 5, with its signature outrigger and the innovative design of the Kobe Venomenon. This blend of old and new elements not only adds visual interest but also provides a unique identity for the JA 2.

Certain reports, such as the one by SoleRetriever.com, indicate an October 2024 release date for the Nike JA 2. However, one should also note that this is still unconfirmed and Nike has yet to announce any details officially. According to SoleRetriever.com, the upcoming Nike JA 2 "Stargazer" sneaker will be available in a full range of sizes, from children (PS and GS) to adults, catering to the needs of all ages. It would not be surprising if that Fall 2024 release date is confirmed, as it coincides with the start of the NBA's 2024-25 regular season, where Ja Morant's Memphis Grizzlies will look to make a mark again in the Western Conference landscape.