The hardwood was alive with incredible kicks in January 2026, proving this year's early season was anything but ordinary! While January often takes a backseat to holiday cheer and the anticipation of All-Star Weekend, this past month saw NBA players showcasing some truly spectacular footwear. Sports Illustrated's Kicks On SI is here to break down the top ten basketball shoes that graced the courts.
But here's where it gets interesting: the usual suspects were joined by some surprising stars and colorways, making it a tough call for the top spots.
Let's dive into the heat:
10. adidas Harden Vol. 10 "Hellcat"
James Harden of the LA Clippers kicked off the month in style, debuting the sleek, all-black "Hellcat" colorway of the adidas Harden Vol. 10 on its release day. For those who love a classic look, these are available for $160 in adult sizes.
9. adidas Anthony Edwards 2 "Pink"
Anthony Edwards, the dynamic guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves, not only wore the vibrant "Pink" colorway of the adidas Anthony Edwards 2 on Christmas Day but continued to rock them throughout January. These eye-catching pink and black hoops shoes can be yours for $130.
8. Nike G.T. Cut 3 Turbo "Juju"
Stephen Curry, the legendary Golden State Warriors guard, paid homage to USC Trojans star Juju Watkins by lacing up the Nike G.T. Cut 3 Turbo in the "Juju" colorway. This special edition, inspired by the Trojans, can still be found for $210 in select sizes.
7. Nike LeBron 23 "Oregon Ducks"
LeBron James, the icon himself, was spotted in a player-exclusive version of the Nike LeBron 23, the "Oregon Ducks" colorway. While this specific design won't be available to the public, you can snag other general-release LeBron 23 styles for $210.
6. Nike Ja 3 "Reverse Daybreak"
Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies showcased a unique player-exclusive take on the Nike Ja 3, flipping the popular "Daybreak" design. For those who missed out on this exclusive, general-release colorways of the Nike Ja 3 are available for $125-$145.
5. Jordan 40.28 "Paolo"
Paolo Banchero, the promising forward for the Orlando Magic, was seen multiple times in the player-exclusive "Paolo" colorway of the Jordan 40.28. As of now, there's no official release information for this highly anticipated model.
4. adidas Harden Vol. 10 "Weatherman"
Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder debuted the "Weatherman" colorway of the adidas Harden Vol. 10. These striking blue and orange sneakers are expected to hit the shelves later this year, though a specific release date is still pending.
3. Nike GT Cut 3 "All-Star"
Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, who is reportedly set to receive his own signature shoe deal with Nike, continues to impress with unreleased colorways. The "All-Star" edition of the Nike GT Cut 3 is a prime example of the innovative designs he's been rocking.
2. Nike LeBron 23 "Cleveland"
In a nod to his past, LeBron James wore the Nike LeBron 23 "Cleveland" colorway against his former team. This design draws clear inspiration from the iconic Nike LeBron 7 he wore during the 2009-10 season.
1. Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro "Knicks"
And the top spot goes to Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks, who, despite reportedly not wanting a signature shoe, continues to debut incredible player-exclusive models. The Nike Kobe 3 Low Protro "Knicks" colorway is a testament to his elite taste in on-court gear.
And this is the part most people miss: the sheer variety and personal expression seen in these player-exclusive and debut colorways highlight a growing trend where players are becoming true style ambassadors on the court.
What do you think of these January shoe highlights? Were there any that surprised you? Let us know in the comments below – do you agree with the top pick, or do you think another shoe deserved the crown?
