Nike LeBron 21 Prime 96 "Varsity Red" HV1221-100

LeBron James pays tribute to one of his early inspirations with the LeBron 21 Prime 96 “Varsity Red.” This colourway draws directly from Deion Sanders’ iconic Air Diamond Turf Max ’96, merging heritage football flair with top-tier basketball performance.

The upper is a clear nod to Prime Time’s original signature shoe. It features a clean white leather base, layered with bold Varsity Red overlays and a striking black midfoot strap that mirrors the DT Max 96’s claw-mark design. Subtle gold Swooshes and flames along the midsole round out the tribute, blending throwback elements with a fresh LeBron twist.

Performance-wise, the shoe stays rooted in the LeBron 21 framework. It includes full-length Zoom Air cushioning for responsive impact absorption and support under pressure. The moulded panels add structure, while the reinforced heel provides stability for dynamic movement. Look closely and you’ll spot the LeBron crown logo on the tongue, marking this crossover with a royal seal.

Worn by LeBron during the 2024 Playoffs, the Prime 96 “Varsity Red” is more than a nod to Sanders—it’s a reminder of the influence greats can have on future generations. A fusion of eras, made for today’s game.

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