Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets center, has worn several SpongeBob-inspired sneakers during the NBA Playoffs.

The Denver Nuggets are facing an uphill battle in the Western Conference Playoffs, thanks to the Minnesota Timberwolves. With two more losses, the defending NBA Champions will be leaving early this spring.

 

However, it is still too early to be concerned. Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets center, is unflappable. The stress of an early playoff exit, as well as the criticism that comes with it, are unlikely to bother Jokic.

While Jokic is modest and prefers to let his talent speak for itself, his sneakers have made a strong statement throughout his MVP season. Social media users have recently noticed a trend in the hues worn by Jokic.

Jokic has worn his first signature sneaker, the 361 Big3 High, in a variety of colorways inspired by the animated children’s television series SpongeBob SquarePants. Who would have thought Jokic was a SpongeBob fan?Jokic is a father of a young child, thus he may have watched a lot of cartoons. Or perhaps he is a true Millennial who watched the show personally. Regardless, the hues stand out on Jokic’s debut hoop shoe.

The KICKS CREW website and app offer fans the low-cut version of Jokic’s iconic sneakers in a variety of colorways. Jokic played his entire career with Nike before signing a marquee contract with Chinese company 361 in December 2023. Aaron Gordon, Jokic’s teammate, also has a signature shoe agreement with 361.

Hopefully, basketball fans and sneakerheads will be treated to an extended playoff series between the Nuggets and Timberwolves. We are eager to see what else the upstart brand has to offer on basketball’s biggest stage.Stay tuned to Sports Illustrated’s FanNation Kicks for the latest footwear news from the NBA and the rest of the sports world.