Serena Williams’s perpetual drive to trump expectations, break records and redefine a sport. Kobe Bryant’s phenomenal 81-point game for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2006. Sanya Richards-Ross’ gold-medal-winning 400-meter race. Chris Paul’s off-court drive to level the playing field. These pivotal performances and seminal individuals rewrote history and catalyzed community — they also serve as the driving inspiration behind the 2016 Black History Month collection.
Since its debut in 2005, Nike’s annual Nike Black History Month collection has evolved from a single Nike Air Force 1 to an extensive product assortment that pays homage to the achievements of black athletes worldwide. The limited-edition 2016 collection, with staggered launches running from January to mid-February, features a vibrant cascade of 28 products, spanning tennis, basketball, football, running, Nike iD and Jordan Brand. Its distinctly global sensibility is reflected in a vivid Pan African-inspired color palette, with custom geometric motifs.
The collection kicks off with Basketball footwear releases including the LEBRON 13, KD8, KYRIE 2 and the KOBE 11. Signature models from Lebron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant will also be offered in youth sizes. Other category launches include: Air Force 1, Nike Air Footscape Magista and Nike Roshe One (including an additional BHM-themed Roshe One Nike iD offering) from Nike Sportswear; NikeCourt Flare footwear from Tennis; Streak LT 3 footwear from Running; and the Air Jordan 1 Nouveau and AJ1 High for girls from Jordan Brand. A BHM-themed Magista Obra FG boot and Jordan Spike 40 follow in February. BHM apparel comprises hoodies, T-shirts and shorts.
The Black History Month collection honors and celebrates Black heritage, in sport and beyond, around the world while also providing financial support to Nike’s Ever Higher Fund, which was created to bring mentorship, sport and all of its benefits to African-American youth.
Nike is proud to support numerous national and local organizations that provide services to underrepresented youth, including African-American youth, during the year, through community development, coaching, city league sport programs, and early childhood development programs. Long-time partners include the Jackie Robinson Foundation, Boys and Girls Clubs, National Head Start and Coach Across America.
Source: Nike
