FCTRY LAb and NLE Choppa Drop Exclusive “Duck Boot” Collaboration

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The black-owned footwear creatives FCTRY LAb just released their groundbreaking collaboration with multi-platinum rap sensation NLE Choppa as they unveil the exclusive “Duck Boot.” This innovative partnership between FCTRY LAb Co-Founder Omar Bailey and NLE Choppa promises to redefine footwear fashion with its bold design and forward-looking vision.

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The Duck Boot made its grand debut on the main stage at Rolling Loud and courtside at a Lakers game alongside Co-Founder Omar Bailey, solidifying its status as a must-have item for trendsetters and sneakerheads alike. With this collaboration, NLE Choppa joins the ranks of music icons disrupting the footwear landscape with their distinctive style and entrepreneurial spirit.

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“FCTRY LAb looks for creators who want to build product lines and brands together,” stated Bailey. “By giving these artists, athletes, and creators the opportunity for profit sharing and equity ownership, we go beyond the typical collaboration fees and endorsement deals offered by most footwear brands. I’m a big fan of what Choppa is doing musically, collaborating on the Duck Boot with him has been inspiring, his entrepreneurial mindset really puts him ahead of the game.”

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NLE Choppa echoed Bailey’s sentiments, expressing his admiration for Bailey’s bold designs and entrepreneurial journey. “When it came to making my own shoe, I knew I had to do it with him and his team at FCTRY LAb to make a real creative statement and impact,” Choppa shared. “He has bet on himself every step of the way, which is in my DNA as an artist and entrepreneur. I can’t wait for y’all to go crazy over these!”

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FCTRY LAb has a proven track record of success, having sold out their first shoe, the “Knight RNR,” created by Bailey himself. With over 20 years of global product design and development experience, Bailey has crafted footwear for entertainment icons such as Jay-Z and Lady Gaga, as well as athletes and culturally impactful brands.

The Duck Boot introduces a fresh twist to a classic shoe concept, featuring a playful theme of yellow ducks combined with innovative materials and exaggerated elements. Its distinctive exterior shape makes a bold fashion statement, while its interior is crafted for ultimate comfort using high-quality materials. From initial sketches to final product, the Duck Boot embodies innovation and collaboration, fulfilling Bailey’s vision of redefining footwear fashion.

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To showcase this exciting collaboration, the Yellow Duck Boot will be prominently featured in NLE Choppa’s forthcoming music video, filmed at Rolling Loud and FCTRY LAb’s unique LA design studio and development lab. This collaboration marks a new chapter in footwear fashion, blending NLE Choppa’s bold style with FCTRY LAb’s innovative designs to create a shoe that pushes boundaries and captivates audiences worldwide.

Photo Credit: Thomas Welch

Stylist Credit: Miquelle West

The post FCTRY LAb and NLE Choppa Drop Exclusive “Duck Boot” Collaboration first appeared on The Source.

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Hip Hop Veteran Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise Break Ground for School In Ghana

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Yesterday marked a significant milestone in the journey towards global education as Hip Hop icon Ja Rule, in partnership with Pencils of Promise (PoP), spearheaded the Jeff and Aisha Atkins Groundbreaking Ceremony at the Nuaso Anglican Basic School in Ghana. This collaborative effort between Ja Rule (Jeffrey Atkins), his wife Aisha, and PoP showcases their shared commitment to supporting quality education for children worldwide.

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The event, held in the Nuaso community in the Eastern region of Ghana, celebrated the groundbreaking of new school facilities aimed at providing safe and conducive learning environments for primary school students in grades K-6. The Nuaso region has long grappled with inadequate and unsafe learning conditions due to makeshift classrooms. In response, PoP and Ja Rule joined forces with the local government and community to initiate the construction of new school facilities, with the Nuaso community contributing through labor and materials.

The ceremony commenced with an opening prayer by religious leader Venerable Kofi Obeng Ofosu, followed by a warm welcome statement from Municipal Education Director Mr. Samuel K. Tettey. PoP CEO Kailee Scales delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the organization’s global impact on education and its focus on collaborative community development and empowerment. Ja Rule expressed his personal commitment to the cause, emphasizing the importance of creating educational opportunities for children worldwide.

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“Many children in rural parts of the world experience significant barriers to their basic human right to primary school education. PoP is so proud to partner with Ja Rule and Aisha Atkins in our shared commitment to help ensure every child has access to the safe, healthy and engaging school experience they deserve,” said CEO Kailee Scales.

Freeman Gobah, PoP Ghana Country Director, shed light on PoP’s initiatives and achievements in Ghana, acknowledging the support of stakeholders in the 202 communities reached by PoP Ghana.

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The event garnered attendance from education officials, government representatives, and local elders, including Lower Manya Krobo MP The Honorable Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, MCE Lower Manya Honorable Simon Kweku Tetteh, and Mark Okraku-Mantey, Deputy Minister of Tourism, among others. The program featured captivating cultural displays by students and community members, culminating in a traditional groundbreaking ceremony symbolized by pickaxes and shovels. Traditional drumming, speeches, and spoken word pieces in the local dialect added to the cultural richness of the event.

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Ja Rule’s commitment to education is evident through his co-founding of L.I.F.E., a non-profit organization aimed at providing youth with extracurricular outlets and educational incentives. His personal pursuit of knowledge, exemplified by his completion of Harvard Business School’s online certification program for Entrepreneurship Essentials, underscores his dedication to prioritizing education over incarceration. In 2023, Ja Rule was honored at PoP’s 15th anniversary Gala with the Audacious Award for his role as a disruptor and advocate of social change.

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The groundbreaking ceremony at the Nuaso Anglican Basic School serves as a testament to Ja Rule and PoP’s shared dedication to advancing education and empowering communities. It strengthens the collaborative relationship between Ja Rule and Pencils of Promise, furthering their mission to ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Photo Credit: The EventPR

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Drake and Nike’s NOCTA Unveil Hot Step 2 Sneaker

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Drake and Nike’s NOCTA have set the sneaker world ablaze with the release of their highly anticipated Hot Step 2 Sneaker in Total Orange. Priced at $200.00, this stylish and innovative footwear option made its debut on Nocta.com yesterday, April 2nd, sending sneakerheads into a frenzy.

The Hot Step 2 is not just another sneaker – it’s a statement piece. Crafted with a synthetic leather upper featuring a reflective finish, this shoe catches the eye with its sleek design and attention to detail. The unique eyestay and textile webbing for lace lockdown add both style and functionality, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for wearers.

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But the Hot Step 2 isn’t just about looks – it’s about performance too. Boasting a NOCTA signature sockliner and a visible Air unit heel, this sneaker provides unmatched comfort and support with every step. The solid rubber outsole with custom NOCTA North Stars offers durability and traction, while the G-TEK outsole technology delivers superior performance on any surface.

For those who missed out on the initial release, fear not – the Hot Step 2 will also be available via Nike’s SNKRS App on Thursday, April 4th, at 7 AM EST. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of sneaker history. Get your hands on the Hot Step 2 and elevate your sneaker game to the next level.

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Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection

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Mallet London, renowned for its British luxury footwear, and The Smiley Company, an iconic symbol of positivity, have joined forces to launch their first collaborative capsule collection. The dream team just released their collection which introduces the Neptune style, infused with the vibrant spirit of Smiley.

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This collaboration marks a fusion of fashion and positivity, as Mallet London and Smiley aim to spread joy and encourage people to embrace a lighthearted approach to life. The Neptune silhouette, available in black and white variations for both men and women, embodies this philosophy with unique baubles integrated into the design, creating a playful interaction with each step.

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At the heart of the collaboration lies a shared ethos between the two brands. Mallet London’s Founder, Evren Ozka, expresses his excitement about partnering with Smiley, emphasizing the alignment of values centered around positivity and creating meaningful connections with consumers.

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The design team at Mallet London drew inspiration from childhood nostalgia, incorporating Smiley icons reminiscent of ball pits and pinball machines. The result is a whimsical yet stylish sneaker that incorporates Smiley’s signature motifs while staying true to Mallet’s sleek aesthetic.

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The attention to detail is evident throughout the collection, with Smiley slogans discreetly integrated into the design, inviting wearers to discover hidden messages that evoke smiles. Each pair of shoes is accompanied by a commemorative box, a Smiley branded keychain, and an exclusive Mallet jewel adorning the laces, further enhancing the unique charm of the collaboration.

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Callum Ruane, Head of Marketing at Mallet London, reflects on the collaborative process, describing it as a joyous campaign that seamlessly merges Smiley’s brand narrative with Mallet’s identity. The result is a collection that exudes positivity and resonates with consumers seeking not only stylish footwear but also a meaningful connection with the brands they support.

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Ross Wilson, Chief Product Officer – Fashion at The Smiley Company, praises the collaborative effort, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail that infuses fun and playfulness into every aspect of the Neptune collection. From the placement of Smiley icons dancing on the shoe’s bubble to the inclusion of hidden slogans, each element contributes to uplifting spirits and spreading smiles with every step.

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This exclusive capsule collection embodies the essence of Mallet London and The Smiley Company’s shared vision of positivity and creativity. With its unique blend of style and optimism, the Mallet & Smiley Neptune collection promises to captivate fashion enthusiasts and spread joy one step at a time.

The post Mallet London and The Smiley Company Unveil Their Collaborative Capsule Collection first appeared on The Source.

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[WATCH] Selena & Yolanda: The Untold Story Unveiled in New Oxygen Docu-Series

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Nearly three decades have passed since the tragic and untimely death of Tejano superstar Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, whose life was cut short by the hands of her former fan club president, Yolanda Saldívar. Now, as Saldívar approaches eligibility for parole next year, Oxygen network is set to delve deep into the gripping saga of Selena’s murder and the complex relationship between the iconic singer and her fan club president in a new docu-series titled ‘Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them…’

The docu-series promises to unravel the intricacies of the relationship between Selena and Saldívar, shedding light on the events leading up to the tragic incident that shocked the world. Saldívar’s chilling act of violence, fueled by allegations of embezzlement and betrayal, forever altered the course of music history and left a lasting impact on Selena’s devoted fan base.

As the Oxygen network prepares to air ‘Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them…’, viewers can expect an intimate and revealing exploration of the dynamics between Selena and Saldívar, offering unprecedented insight into the personal and professional lives of both women. Through interviews, archival footage, and firsthand accounts, the docu-series aims to paint a comprehensive portrait of the events that transpired behind the scenes of Selena’s meteoric rise to fame.

The decision to produce ‘Selena & Yolanda: The Secrets Between Them…’ comes at a pivotal moment, as Saldívar’s potential parole reignites public interest in the infamous case while also honoring Selena’s enduring legacy as a groundbreaking artist and cultural icon.

Watch the trailer below.

Thoughts?

The post [WATCH] Selena & Yolanda: The Untold Story Unveiled in New Oxygen Docu-Series first appeared on The Source.

The post [WATCH] Selena & Yolanda: The Untold Story Unveiled in New Oxygen Docu-Series appeared first on The Source.

Snoop Dogg Brings His West Coast Flair To NBC’s Paris Olympics Coverage

Snoop Dogg and Son Announce their own Fornite game studio to promote diverse creators

Hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg is set to add his west coast flair to NBC’s universal coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics this summer. The legendary rapper will be featured in prime-time programming on both the NBC broadcast network and the Peacock streaming platform.

While Snoop Dogg may not be the most conventional choice for Olympic coverage, NBC is venturing into new territory to bring fresh and engaging content to its prime-time hours. This move follows the rapper’s previous stint as a commentator during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics alongside comedian Kevin Hart, and it seems that his unique take on the events resonated with audiences.

According to an NBC executive, Snoop Dogg’s previous Olympic commentary garnered “tens of millions of views,” showcasing the rapper’s ability to bring entertainment and a fresh perspective to the traditional sports coverage format.

As the Paris Olympics approach, fans can anticipate Snoop Dogg’s witty commentary and infectious energy to spice up the broadcast, making the games even more enjoyable for a diverse audience. NBC’s decision to bring back Snoop Dogg suggests a willingness to experiment with unconventional but popular figures to enhance the viewing experience for fans of all backgrounds.

Thoughts?

The post Snoop Dogg Brings His West Coast Flair To NBC’s Paris Olympics Coverage first appeared on The Source.

The post Snoop Dogg Brings His West Coast Flair To NBC’s Paris Olympics Coverage appeared first on The Source.

DJ Clue And The Grand Encounter Experience: A Night of Hip Hop and Elegance

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Last week, the iconic DJ Clue surprised fans with an unforgettable performance at Grand Marnier’s Grand Encounter experience at AT in NYC. The legendary DJ, known for his significant contributions to hip hop culture, sat down with The Source Magazine to discuss 50 years of hip hop before taking the stage with a live band. The event marked a monumental moment in the intersection of music and mixology.

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Grand Marnier, synonymous with sophistication and craftsmanship, used the Grand Encounter experience to introduce the taste of their Cognac Region to New York City. This exclusive event seamlessly blended the worlds of hip hop and high-end spirits, creating a unique atmosphere that captivated attendees.

DJ Clue, in the midst of the festivities, shared a moment backstage enjoying Grand Marnier Margaritas. When asked which hip hop song he would compare to a Grand Marnier cocktail, he humorously responded with Jay-Z’s “Show Me What You Got.” According to DJ Clue, the song’s live instruments, horns, and drums create an energy that resonates with the crowd, much like the enduring appeal of Grand Marnier.

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Grand Encounter Events: A Blend of Music, Art, and Cocktails

This holiday season, residents of New York and Houston, aged 21 and above, are invited to immerse themselves in the world of Grand Marnier by attending the Grand Encounter experience in their cities. The event promises special hip hop performances and the opportunity to purchase the Grand Margarita cocktail kit, offering a seamless solution for holiday shopping.

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Grand Encounter Event (1)

Just as Grand Marnier combines Cognac and Orange Liqueur to create its signature flavor, the Grand Encounter experience blended music, art, and cocktails to provide a truly grand experience. Attendees had the chance to explore the world of Grand Marnier, savoring signature tastings of Grand Marnier Cuvée Louis Alexandre, an exceptional VSOP cognac known for its character and complexity.

The (W)rapping Paper Program: A Collaboration with Teezo Touchdown

Grand Marnier unveiled its (W)rapping Paper program in collaboration with rock and rap artist Teezo Touchdown and luxury black-owned gifting company UNWRP. This program celebrates the holidays, meaningful moments, and 50 years of hip hop with limited-edition wrapping paper, gift (w)rap content, custom cocktail kits, and a donation to The Hip Hop Museum.

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The limited-edition (W)rapping Paper + Cocktail Kit is a tribute to hip hop’s 50th anniversary, drawing inspiration from Teezo Touchdown. Consumers can purchase a Grand Margarita holiday cocktail kit while supplies last, featuring all the ingredients to create Teezo Touchdown’s twist on the delicious drink, along with a free custom (w)rapping paper.

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About Cocktail Courier: Elevating the Home Bartending Experience

Cocktail Courier, known for its cocktail delivery service, provided the Grand Margarita kit, ensuring attendees had all the fresh ingredients, alcohol, and instructions needed to mix up bar-quality cocktails at home. The service eliminates the hassle of recipe and ingredient hunting, transforming anyone into a professional bartender in minutes.

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Grand Margarita Recipe: A Toast to Elegance and Flavor

As a highlight of the night, the Grand Margarita was a crowd-pleaser. Here’s the recipe for you to try at home:

Ingredients:

0.75 parts Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge
1.5 parts Tequila
0.75 parts Fresh Lime Juice
0.25 parts Agave Nectar
Garnish: Lime Wheel through a nail cocktail pick, floating dehydrated star fruit
Salt Rim (Optional)

Instructions:

Combine ingredients in a shaker tin.
Add ice and shake.
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a nail cocktail pick, lime wheel, and top with dehydrated starfruit.
Enjoy the sophisticated and flavorful Grand Margarita!

The Grand Encounter experience with DJ Clue, Grand Marnier, and the (W)rapping Paper program showcased the perfect blend of music, art, and mixology, creating an evening that celebrated both the rich history of hip hop and the elegance of Grand Marnier.

The post DJ Clue And The Grand Encounter Experience: A Night of Hip Hop and Elegance first appeared on The Source.

The post DJ Clue And The Grand Encounter Experience: A Night of Hip Hop and Elegance appeared first on The Source.

Step into Style: The Hottest Men’s Shoes of the Season

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As the seasons change, so does the fashion landscape, and this year, it’s all about making a statement with your footwear. We’ve curated a list of the hottest men’s shoes for the season, blending style, functionality, and innovation. From collapsible designs to timeless classics, these shoes are set to redefine your fashion game.

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Ace Marks Kody Travel Sneaker

The Kody Travel Sneaker is not your average pair of kicks. Priced at $235, these sneakers feature a unique, collapsible design, allowing them to be folded flat effortlessly. Ideal for travel enthusiasts, these shoes occupy 75% less space than conventional footwear, making them the perfect companion for your escapades.

Designed with a disruptive and innovative approach, these travel-friendly sneakers redefine the very essence of dress sneakers, presenting an ultra-lightweight and supremely comfortable solution for the modern individual on the move. What sets them apart is their unique collapsible design, effortlessly folding flat to occupy a mere 25% of the space taken by conventional footwear – a game-changer for your travel escapades.

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Handcrafted in Italy by skilled artisans, the Kody Travel Sneaker boasts exquisite Vento leather uppers, celebrated for their breathability and resistance to creasing. This dedication to premium materials ensures not only a sophisticated appearance but also a shoe that stands the test of time.

The patented XL Extralight outsoles are a standout feature, being 3x lighter, more durable, and flexible. Coupled with a cushioned insole, these sneakers offer optimal comfort even during extended wear. Elevate your travel style with the Kody Travel Sneaker.

Duke Dress Sneaker Vela Blue Nicol

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Crafted with durability in mind, the Duke Low Top Dress Sneakers boast stitched rubber outsoles, complemented by waxed dress shoelaces for a refined finish. The classic yet modern silhouette, coupled with the versatile Vela Blue hue, makes these sneakers a timeless addition to any wardrobe.

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Ace Marks Wayne Travel Sneaker

The Wayne Travel Sneaker takes collapsibility to the next level. Crafted in Cuoio Buffalo Leather, Black Buffalo Leather, and White Buffalo Leather, these are the first-ever collapsible leather shoes that collapse to approximately 2 inches without creasing. Say goodbye to checked baggage fees as you easily pack these sleek sneakers into your carry-on or backpack.

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Ace Marks Duke Dress Sneaker

The Duke Dress Sneaker combines sophistication with comfort. These sneakers offer a stylish alternative to traditional dress shoes. The navy leather adds a touch of elegance, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Step out in style without compromising on comfort.

Jack Erwin Collection – Timeless Styles at an Affordable Price Point

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Jack Erwin, a renowned men’s and women’s footwear brand, has been making waves since its launch in 2013. Known for their timeless designer styles at an affordable price point, Jack Erwin offers a range of favorites from their men’s collection.

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Jack Erwin Ellis Lug Sole

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Jack Erwin Ellis

Standouts include the Ellis Lug Sole Loafers, Carmine, Ollie, and Reade, showcasing the brand’s commitment to effortless and classic designs.

This season, your footwear doesn’t just complement your outfit; it defines your style. Whether you’re jet-setting around the globe or making a stylish statement closer to home, these shoes compliment the modern man. Step into the new season with confidence and flair.

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PUMA Unveils LaMelo Ball’s MB.03 Chino Hills Colorway

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PUMA Hoops is set to make waves with the latest addition to LaMelo Ball’s signature shoe collection, the MB.03 Chino Hills. This new shoe pays homage to LaMelo’s origin story, specifically his remarkable achievement at Chino Hills High School when he scored an astonishing 92 points as a sophomore. The Chino Hills colorway is a nod to this jaw-dropping moment. It showcases design elements inspired by the MB.03 Toxic storyline, featuring bold neon accents and animalistic scratch marks, all of which celebrate LaMelo’s outstanding accomplishments.

The MB.03 Chino Hills boasts PUMA’s signature NITRO™ midsole for superior on-court performance, a double-layered mesh upper for added support, and a durable, engineered nonslip rubber compound for enhanced traction. The shoe’s upper construction is crafted with breathable monomesh, offering a supportive and lightweight fit.

In addition to the footwear, PUMA is releasing a three-piece apparel collection featuring a hoodie, shorts, and tee, with prices ranging from $40 to $125. The collection will be available starting November 17th at various retailers, including PUMA.com, the PUMA App, Foot Locker, Champs Sports, Foot Locker Canada, and Champs Sports Canada. Get ready to elevate your game with LaMelo Ball’s signature style.

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Eastside Golf Uses New Jordan Collection to Promote Inclusivity & ‘Fundamental Change 

Eastside Golf Uses New Jordan Collection to Promote Inclusivity & ‘Fundamental Change 

If you are not familiar with Eastside Golf as of yet, you certainly need to be. 

The fashion-forward golf lifestyle brand founded by Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper recently introduced their third Jordan collaboration entitled The 1961 Project.

The collection commemorates the year the PGA of America lifted its Caucausian-only clause. Before 1961, a non-caucasian individual could not become a PGA professional tour player nor manage PGA-administered golf courses. 

“We’re not just here to simply come up with some flashy clothing,” says Cooper. We want to use these clothes as messaging and a conversation piece to invoke a different perspective on the game completely.” 

For most African-American culture, the attention to the sport of golf shifted in 1997, when Tiger Woods won his first Masters tournament at 22 years old. Cooper adds that the difference between “The 1961 Project ” from their previous collections is the “messaging” and education. 

“We really want to see a real fundamental change and I think you see a lot of that messaging when it comes to our new collection,” Cooper added. 

The Change 1961 Eastside Golf x Jordan three-shoe collection features an Air Jordan 1 High Golf, Jordan ADG, and Air Jordan 6 Low Golf. The themed apparel collection consists of 12 pieces, including long and short-sleeved tees, polos, hoodies, jogging sets, tracksuits, belts, hats, socks, and more. 

“With the 1961 Project, I want people to learn about the change-makers who paved the way for more people of color to pursue this field and get a fair shot,” says Olajuwon. 

Back in September, the duo hosted their first Eastside Golf Invitational in San Diego. The star-studded event was attended by Kevin Liles, CC Sabathia, Andre Iguodala, Sean “Pecas” Costner and more. During the invitational, The Eastside Golf founder donated $50,000 to the Morehouse College golf team. Cooper and Olajuwon are Morehouse College alumni. 

You can catch more of Eastside Golf’s story on their six-part Hulu documentary, Grails, executive produced by Sean “Pecas” Costner with Steve Bartels and Hannah Storm.

The post Eastside Golf Uses New Jordan Collection to Promote Inclusivity & ‘Fundamental Change  first appeared on The Source.

The post Eastside Golf Uses New Jordan Collection to Promote Inclusivity & ‘Fundamental Change  appeared first on The Source.