LaMelo Ball's Signature Shoe Line with PUMA - The MB.01
Introducing LaMelo Ball's Signature Shoe Line with PUMA
In November 2022, PUMA announced an exciting new partnership with NBA star LaMelo Ball to release his first signature sneaker, the MB.01. At just 21 years old, LaMelo becomes the youngest player to get a signature shoe with a major brand like PUMA. This unique partnership shows the confidence PUMA has in LaMelo's skills on the court and his growing popularity off of it.
The Backstory Behind the PUMA MB.01
LaMelo Ball was selected third overall in the 2020 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets after playing professionally overseas and in the NBL in Australia. The 6’7” point guard made an immediate impact, winning NBA Rookie of the Year for the 2020-21 season. LaMelo’s creative style of play and flair captured the basketball world's attention.
PUMA took notice of LaMelo’s talent and potential for superstardom early on. They signed him before he was drafted, a rare move for a brand with a young prospect. The deal was controversial at the time but looks smart in retrospect.
After LaMelo’s rookie year, PUMA went to work designing his first signature shoe. LaMelo provided input on the look and feel of the MB.01 to reflect his flashy game and fashion sense. The final product dropped in December 2022, with LaMelo debuting the shoes on court.
Breaking Down the PUMA MB.01's Design
The MB.01 combines LaMelo’s love of flashy colors with performance-driven technology. The most eye-catching elements are the PUMA and MB logos on the tongue tab and heel tab in bright neon colors.
There are also several fun hidden design elements. The sockliner features LaMelo’s signature wings logo and the outsole depicts LaMelo’s “1 of 1” mantra with the coordinates of where he played his first professional game in the NBL.
In terms of performance, the MB.01 utilizes PUMA’s Nitro foam in the midsole for lightweight responsiveness. The mesh upper provides breathability while support cages on the lateral and medial sides provide stability for LaMelo’s unpredictable footwork.
Playing in the PUMA MB.01
After unveiling the MB.01, LaMelo finally got the chance to play in his signature sneaker in an NBA game. LaMelo has worn the MB.01 in a “Bright Neon” and “Quiet Shade” colorway so far this season.
The Responsive Nitro foam and stability cages have supported LaMelo driving to the hoop and pulling up for deep threes. The grippy rubber outsole also provides traction for changing speeds and directions.
As LaMelo continues racking up triple doubles and highlights in the MB.01, the shoes are sure to gain more popularity on NBA courts and with fans.
The Tech Specs
Here are some key tech specs for the PUMA MB.01:
- Nitro foam midsole for lightweight responsiveness
- Multi-directional grip pattern on rubber outsole
- Mesh upper for breathability
- Supportive TPU splint on lateral and medial forefoot
- Sockliner with LaMelo’s wings logo
- Full-length IMEVA foam for additional cushioning
Initial Colorways of the MB.01
The PUMA MB.01 launched in several vibrant colorways true to LaMelo’s style. Here are some of the initial color options:
- Bright Neon: Pink, teal, and yellow accents with grey underlays
- Quiet Shade: Black and white with purple and turquoise accents
- Lucky Green: Emerald green and black with red accents
- Red Blast: Red upper with black and white accents
- Sonar: Yellow upper with teal and pink accents
Release Details
The PUMA MB.01 dropped globally on December 1, 2022 at a retail price of $125. They are available at puma.com and retailers like Foot Locker.
More MB.01 colorways are slated to release through 2023 along with matching apparel and accessories. PUMA is committed to LaMelo and plans to build out his signature line over time.
Performance Reviews
Initial reviews of the MB.01’s performance have been very positive. Testers praised the responsive cushioning and traction as well as the shoes’ stability during hard cuts and jumps. Some noted the MB.01 runs a little narrow but going up half a size solved the issue.
Reviewers also liked the creative details and LaMelo’s input into the design. The MB.01 earned an overall rating of 4/5 stars from outlets like WearTesters, SneakerNews, and HoopsDream.
Fan Reactions
Fans have been excited about LaMelo getting his first signature shoe and hearing his input on the design. Many love the flashy neon accents that match LaMelo’s playing style and on-court persona.
The unique details like LaMelo’s wings logo and launch coordinates have also been a hit with fans. Along with the performance reviews, most reactions have been very positive.
Of course, signature shoes come with pressure and some fans expressed LaMelo has not proven himself enough yet. But the early returns have been great and the MB.01 looks to be a promising start to LaMelo’s signature line.
The Future Looks Bright for LaMelo and PUMA
Getting a signature shoe at age 21 shows the confidence PUMA has in LaMelo Ball as the face of their basketball category. If LaMelo continues his meteoric rise, the MB.01 is likely the first of many signature models to come.
PUMA took a risk partnering with LaMelo before he entered the NBA but it has already started paying off. LaMelo captivates fans with both his playing style and unique fashion sense. The MB.01 shoes represent the perfect marriage of performance and flair.
Look for LaMelo to build his brand on and off the court in the coming years. He has all the star power brands want to build around. For PUMA, the LaMelo Ball signature line provides a young star to spearhead their basketball relaunch. The MB.01 is just the beginning for the newly minted NBA Rookie of the Year and All-Star starter.
FAQs
How old is LaMelo Ball?
LaMelo Ball is currently 21 years old. He was born in August 2001.
What team does LaMelo Ball play for?
LaMelo Ball was drafted by and currently plays for the Charlotte Hornets. He was drafted 3rd overall in 2020.
When did the PUMA MB.01 release?
The PUMA MB.01, LaMelo Ball's first signature shoe, released globally on December 1, 2022.
Where can I buy the PUMA MB.01?
The PUMA MB.01 is available at PUMA.com, Foot Locker, and other major athletic retailers. The retail price is $125.
What are some key tech specs of the MB.01?
Key specs include a Nitro foam midsole, mesh upper, stability cages, full-length IMEVA foam, and a multi-directional grip outsole.
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