LeBron James wears PH-inspired sneaker in NBA preseason debut

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers wears Nike shoes in the first quarter of a preseason game against the Brooklyn Nets at T-Mobile Arena on October 09, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers defeated the Nets 129-126. Ethan Miller/Getty Images/AFP

MANILA, Philippines–LeBron James paid homage to the Philippines in his NBA preseason debut on Tuesday (Manila time).

James, who was back wearing the familiar No. 23 in honor of Bill Russell, rocked a pair of LeBron NXXT Gen “TITAN Hoops Fair” that features the colors of the Philippine flag.

Back in that 2️⃣3️⃣!#NBAPreseason pic.twitter.com/YEYHM6c1Bf

— NBA (@NBA) October 10, 2023

The four-time NBA champion James, who missed the Los Angeles Lakers’ first game in the preseason, had 10 points, three rebounds, five assists, one steal and a block in 16 minutes to help the Lakers beat the Brooklyn Nets, 129-126, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The sneaker is the fourth collaboration between Titan, the only basketball specialty concept store in the country, and Nike Basketball. It made its official release last August 13.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers is guarded by Dennis Smith Jr. #4 of the Brooklyn Nets in the second quarter of their preseason game at T-Mobile Arena on October 09, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers defeated the Nets 129-126. Ethan Miller/Getty Images/AFP

The 38-year-old James is entering his 21st season in the NBA as the oldest player in the league following the retirement of Miami Heat veteran Udonis Haslem.

James, who said he’s dedicating the upcoming season to his eldest son Bronny, and the Lakers resume preseason play on Thursday against the Sacramento Kings at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

James averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game last season where he led the Lakers to the Western Conference Finals.