Key moments
In a heartfelt tribute to the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, NBA star James Harden announced the launch of a new sneaker collaboration with Adidas. The sneaker, named the “Marathon” Harden Vol. 10, is set to be released on April 12, 2026, marking a significant moment in honoring Hussle’s legacy.
Nipsey Hussle, who was shot and killed on March 31, 2019, at the age of 33, was known not only for his music but also for his commitment to community empowerment and ownership. He founded The Marathon Clothing in 2017, which became a symbol of his message to invest back into the neighborhood and uplift those around him.
The design of the new sneaker features the color royal blue and includes “The Marathon Continues” flag on the heel, a nod to Hussle’s enduring influence and the message he championed throughout his life. Harden, who attended the same middle school in South Central L.A. as Hussle, expressed deep admiration for the rapper, stating, “He was powerful. Not just to a certain dynamic or a certain city, but just to the world. He was a leader. He was so many things.”
Harden plans to debut the “Marathon” Harden Vol. 10 during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 31, 2026, coinciding with the anniversary of Hussle’s tragic death. This timing underscores the importance of Hussle’s legacy and the impact he had on both the music industry and his community.
In recent weeks, a mural honoring Nipsey Hussle was painted in South Oak Cliff, Dallas, further demonstrating the widespread admiration for his contributions. Harden’s collaboration with Adidas is seen as a continuation of Hussle’s message, emphasizing ownership and empowerment. Harden remarked, “This journey that I’m on is for him, it’s plain and simple.”
The sneaker will retail for $160, and with Harden’s recent performance, including a season-high of 14 assists in a game against the Utah Jazz, the anticipation for the release is growing. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a record of 16-5 since Harden joined the team, showcasing his impact on the court.
As the release date approaches, fans and community members alike are reflecting on Hussle’s legacy and the values he stood for. His life was tragically taken away due to senseless violence, which Harden poignantly noted, saying, “His life got taken away off nonsense, off BS. It’s been sad, man.” The sneaker collaboration serves as a reminder of Hussle’s message and the ongoing journey to uplift communities.
While details about the sneaker’s release and Harden’s performance continue to unfold, the collaboration stands as a testament to Nipsey Hussle’s lasting influence and the commitment of those who seek to carry his message forward.
