Nike Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets Shoes - History and Details

The History of Nike's Brooklyn Nets Dunk Lows

The Nike Dunk shoe has become an iconic sneaker since its debut in 1985. Originally designed as a basketball shoe, Dunks have transcended their performance pedigree to become a lifestyle and cultural staple. In 2022, Nike celebrated the 75th anniversary of the NBA with a special Dunk Low release paying homage to the Brooklyn Nets.

The Brooklyn Nets Franchise

The Nets franchise has undergone numerous transformations since joining the ABA as the New Jersey Americans in 1967. After moving to Long Island as the New York Nets, the team won ABA championships in 1974 and 1976 behind Hall of Fame forward Julius "Dr. J" Erving. The Nets were one of four ABA teams absorbed into the NBA in 1976 but struggled initially to find success in their new league.

In 2012, the Nets moved to Brooklyn, ushering in a new era for the franchise. With a sleek new black and white color scheme, the Nets developed a bold new identity befitting the borough they now called home. Anchored by stars like Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce, the Nets returned to prominence, making the playoffs in their first season in Brooklyn.

The Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets

To celebrate the NBA's 2022 diamond anniversary, Nike created a "Mosaic" pack featuring unique Dunk Low colorways for a handful of teams. The Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets stood out with its crisp black, white, and gray color scheme mirroring the franchise's current aesthetic.

The white leather base provides a neutral foundation while black patent leather overlays and accent detailing offer contrast. The black Swoosh logos and midsole contribute clean lines, allowing the sneaker's standout feature to take center stage. Across both shoes, the Brooklyn Nets logo appears in a mosaic pattern using varying shades of gray suede.

Release and Response

Nike launched the entire Mosaic pack on September 29th, 2022 at a retail price of $120. With Dunk hype at an all-time high, the Brooklyn Nets colorway instantly became a coveted release. Wider distribution came on November 11th giving more fans a chance to secure a pair for retail.

On resale sites, the Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets currently trade between $170 and $220 depending on size. For aftermarket prices, that puts them in line with other popular team-inspired Dunks like the recent Syracuse and Kentucky pairs.

The Importance of Dunks in Sneaker Culture

Dunks have come to represent far more than just a basketball shoe. Much like the Air Force 1, they tap into nostalgia for sneakerheads who remember the golden years of 80's and 90's streetball. At the same time, Dunks also remain relevant in today's fashion landscape for their ability to be customized and repurposed.

Few shoes can transcend sports and trends to become a canvas welcoming the creative expression of artists, designers, and collectors alike. The Nike Dunk persists because it represents the ethos of sneaker culture - appreciation for athletic heritage meets willingness to rewrite the script.

FAQs

What inspired the design of the Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets?

The black, white and gray color scheme was inspired by the current branding of the Brooklyn Nets NBA team. The mosaic pattern using different shades of gray suede is meant to pay homage to the Nets logo.

When did the Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets release?

The Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets first released on September 29th, 2022 at select Nike retailers. Wider distribution came on November 11th, 2022.

Where can I buy the Dunk Low Brooklyn Nets?

Your best bet is resale sites like GOAT and StockX where pairs are selling between $170-$220 depending on size. Be wary of fakes being sold elsewhere.

How does the Brooklyn Nets colorway compare to other team Dunks?

In terms of resale value, the Brooklyn Nets Dunks align with recent drops like the Syracuse and University of Kentucky pairs which also trade in the low $200 range.