Air Jordan XX9
It has long been rumoured that Russell Westbrook will be debuting a secret Nike shoe during this year’s playoffs, allegedly the new Air Jordan XX9. The hearsay was bolstered by a TV spot aired during the OKC/Pacers game earlier this week, entitled “Tailored for Flight.” It featured the ever-fashionable guard picking up an unknown package from a tailor, hinting that he’ll “save these for the playoffs.” The official unveiling is sure to follow.

 

Jordan CP3.VII AE
Chris Paul of the LA Clippers gave us all a preemptive taste of playoffs madness when debuted this particular pair of kicks—a special colourway of the CP3.VII AE—one day after Jordan Brand dropped its Playoff Pack. The colourway sports red, white and blue, and the upper is formed of a single, exposed Flywire panel. The commercial release for this specific color scheme hasn’t been painted. A separate colourway is available in the aforementioned Jordan Brand Playoff Pack.

 

Nike Zoom Crusader James Harden “Playoff” PE
James Harden of the Trail Blazers will be donning a special-made pair of Crusader PEs for his playoff run, according to Sneaker Bar Detroit. There are three colourways in total, each sport a bit of orange on top of either grey, white, or orange and red. That’s not bad news for Harden, who has yet to get his own signature product.pasting

The Elite Series Team Collection

 

Nike LeBron 11 Elite
LeBron James’ playoff shoes has been fueling rumours since January, building it up as one of the hottest releases of the postseason. Finally, the masses got confirmation of the kick just a few days ago. The playoffs version of the 11s fixes the shape issue that prompted James to wear last year’s model instead, and is more tailored to his strength and size. According to The Hoop Doctors, the update involves bottom-loading the Zoom Air unit for enhanced comfort.

 

Nike KD VI Elite
Kevin Durant’s signature shoe reinforces the Flywire cables with Kevlar and gives the upper extra breathability by incorporating more mesh. It’s also the first KD signature sneak from Nike with Zoom Air cushioning down its full length, making it lighter than the original iteration. This particular colourway makes use of photo blue and team orange.

 

Nike Kobe 9 Elite
While Kobe Bryant’s injury may keep him away from this year’s playoffs, that’s got nothing to do with whether or not this kick is releasing. The colourway is an homage to the Lakers, and is the first-ever basketball shoe to feature Nike’s Flyknit technology. It will also make use of a dynamic Flywire upper and Lunarlon cushioning in the lower. Even cooler, it bucks the usual low top design of the past few Kobes.

Jordan brand Playoff Pack

 

Jordan Brand launched this playoff pack April 9. For the overall look, Jordan affected reflective black make up for the shoes as part of its “time to shine” mindset (a subtle tribute to the Air Jordan Vs of yesteryear). The pack includes upgraded versions of the existing Air Jordan XX8 SE, CP3.VII AE, Super.Fly 2 PO and Melo M10 in colourways based on playoff teams.