What to make of the NBA’s new and more-relaxed sneakers rule

The big trades are done, and much of the offseason NBA talk has shifted to a landmark league ruling that will allow players to wear their shoes of choice starting this coming season. Previously, the NBA imposed strict rules on what sneaker colorways or silhouettes players can opt for in a typical playing week, effectively limiting shoe choices to those that match the dominant colors of franchises.

To say that this development is most-welcome is an understatement. The NBA has always been a major influencer in street fashion, particularly on the latest sneaker trends. And there are many certified sneakerheads in the league who’d wear loud and bright sneakers when given the chance. That time is now; expect players like PJ Tucker, Nick Young, and Paul George to regularly showcase hyped, rare, and super-expensive pairs starting November.

This will also fuel the marketing of shoes by players signed to lucrative sneaker deals like James Harden, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry. Mother brands like Nike, Under Armor, and Adidas will have to pay more attention to what sneaker models they want to be seen on television; what’s more, the rule with allow more room for the most outlandish and experimental designs and concepts that suit their more eccentric brand ambassadors.

All in all, this new sneaker rule which began with the WNBA is an acceptance of professional sports’ impact on pop culture, particularly basketball. It’s the NBA finally giving that long-delayed nod to the player that started all the shoe craze, his airness Michael Jordan.

Hello, there, Mike Giuffrida here. I’m a student based in Los Angeles and I’m hoping to break into the entertainment industry soon. For similar reads, please visit this blog.