In the ever-evolving world of sneaker culture, Kiki Rice has solidified her place in history as the first-ever NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) athlete for Jordan Brand. Making waves in 2022, the UCLA Bruins guard is once again in the spotlight, this time debuting a player-exclusive colorway that pays homage to her hometown of Washington, D.C. Let’s take a detailed look at the Air Jordan 38 Low ‘Cherry Blossom’ and explore the unique elements that make these sneakers a true work of art.
During a recent game against the Stanford Cardinal, Kiki Rice stepped onto the court in the highly-anticipated Air Jordan 38 Low ‘Cherry Blossom.’ The colorway, inspired by the cherry blossoms that annually grace the streets of Washington, D.C., is a captivating blend of artistry and symbolism.
The shoe features a distinctive cherry blossom graphic on the tongue top, and the sock liner is adorned with a beautiful floral pattern, adding a touch of nature’s elegance to the design. The gradient hues of pink and blue throughout the shoe cleverly reflect the cherry blossoms against the backdrop of D.C.’s iconic blue skies.
Adding a personal touch to the sneakers, “KIKI” is elegantly embroidered on the back left heel, showcasing Rice’s connection to the Air Jordan brand. The iconic Jumpman logo takes its place on the right heel, subtly nodding to the legacy of the Jordan Brand and Rice’s significant role as its first NIL athlete.
While sneaker enthusiasts might be eager to get their hands on the Air Jordan 38 Low ‘Cherry Blossom,’ it’s important to note that this player-exclusive colorway is unlikely to be released to the public. However, each UCLA women’s basketball player and staff member will receive a pair, turning these sneakers into a symbol of unity and camaraderie within the team.
The silver lining for fans is that the Nike website offers a variety of Air Jordan 38 styles for online shoppers, allowing them to explore and choose from other captivating designs in the collection.
Beyond her on-court prowess, Kiki Rice continues to showcase her influence in the world of sneaker culture. As the Bruins gear up for another exciting run in March, fans can undoubtedly expect more jaw-dropping sneaker moments from this D.C. native.
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