New York Knicks captured the NBA Finals, ending a 53-year championship drought with a notable fashion statement on the court: an abundance of teal sneakers. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart, key players in the Knicks' victory over the San Antonio Spurs, donned the same teal sneakers—Brunson's own player-edition colorway of the Kobe 6, designed in an eye-catching shade reminiscent of the Statue of Liberty.
Brunson's Historic Fashion Choice
Jalen Brunson, Knicks' captain, wore his teal Kobe 6 colorway featuring copper accents, a nod to New York City. The sneaker, which had a wide release in December, marked the first time an NBA Finals MVP wore shoes from Nike’s Kobe line since 2010. Brunson's footwear choice was not only a fashion statement but a symbol of his leadership on the court.
Teal Takeover: Other Players Join In
Josh Hart matched Brunson's sneaker choice for part of the game, wearing the Nike Kobe 6 Protro PEs, dubbed “Lady Liberty.” Spurs guard Devin Vassell also sported teal Nikes, the Nike Book 2 “Sedona,” inspired by a unique turquoise McDonald's arch in Sedona, Arizona. Meanwhile, Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns opted for a deeper teal with his player-exclusive Nike G.T. Jump 2s.
Colorful Second Half and Beyond
Switching things up after halftime, Josh Hart swapped his teal sneakers for the Nike Kobe 6 “Total Orange,” complementing the court's lively sneaker palette. The vibrant orange sneakers commemorated WNBA All-Star Weekend, while Hart's choice underscored the Knicks' blue and orange team colors. Other Knicks players also embraced colorful footwear, including Jordan Clarkson in the Kobe 6 “Grinch” and Mikal Bridges in “NY vs NY” Nike Ja 3s.
Resale Market Surge
In the wake of Game 5, the resale market for the Nike Kobe 6 “Statue of Liberty” sneakers has surged, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,000 on StockX. This significant increase highlights the cultural impact of the sneakers worn during the Knicks' historic win. Fans eager to own a piece of this momentous occasion should be prepared for steep prices. For those unable to purchase, the memories of the Knicks' victory remain priceless.
Source: https://www.gq.com/story/nba-finals-2026-jalen-brunson-josh-hart-blue-sneakers
