Archive · 22 Jan 2026
LeBron James & Nike criticized for MLK shoes
LeBron James and Nike are making new shoes to honor Martin Luther King Jr. The shoes are teal, which some people don't like because that color reminds them of the place where MLK was killed.
Nike says the color also represents a game LeBron played well.
Some fans are upset, saying it's not respectful to use MLK's memory for shoes.
LeBron and Nike plan to release the shoes despite the criticism.
LeBron James and Nike's new 'Honor the King' shoes aim to honor Martin Luther King Jr.
The shoes are teal, which critics associate with the Lorraine Motel, the site of MLK's assassination.
Nike defends the color choice, citing LeBron's 51-point game against the Memphis Grizzlies in 2008.
Fans and commentators criticize the shoes, calling the move disrespectful and capitalistic.
Nike plans to proceed with the launch despite the backlash.
- Who
- LeBron James and Nike
- What
- Launch of 'Honor the King' shoes
- When
- Upcoming launch, exact date not specified
- Where
- Global release, details not specified
- Why
- To honor Martin Luther King Jr., but criticized for color choice
- Shoes Name
- Nike LeBron coloway 23
- Color
- Teal
- Reason for Criticism
- Color association with MLK's death site
- Nike's Response
- Design is subjective, intent to honor MLK
- Fan Reaction
- Disgraceful, trivializes MLK's murder