LeBron James debuts Nike LeBron NXT Gen 'JW' collaboration with JuJu Watkins

The unreleased shoe features a sleek, monochromatic design and is the first player-exclusive collaboration within the LeBron NXXT Gen line.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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LeBron James surprised fans by wearing the unreleased Nike LeBron NXT Gen 'JW' colorway, a collaboration with USC women's basketball star JuJu Watkins, during the Lakers' recent win over the Warriors. The shoe features a modern, understated design with a metallic Swoosh and is the first player-exclusive within the LeBron NXXT Gen line to reach the public.

Why it matters

This collaboration represents a passing of the torch from one Nike icon to a rising young star. Watkins, who is sidelined this season with an ACL injury, has earned the rare distinction of co-creating a player-exclusive sneaker design, showcasing Nike's investment in the next generation of talent.

The details

The Nike LeBron NXT Gen 'JW' colorway features a sleek, monochromatic grey and silver design with a glossy, metallic Swoosh. The shoe is described as 'modern royalty meeting next-generation swagger' and will also be available in black and other colors. There is no official release date yet, but Nike says it will retail for around $170 and launch this spring.

  • LeBron James debuted the unreleased shoe during the Lakers' 105-99 win over the Golden State Warriors on February 11, 2026.
  • JuJu Watkins tore her ACL during the NCAA Women's tournament in March 2025 and is sidelined for the current season.

The players

LeBron James

A legendary NBA player and one of Nike's most prominent brand ambassadors.

JuJu Watkins

A rising star on the USC women's basketball team and the first athlete to co-create a sneaker within the Nike LeBron NXXT Gen line.

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What’s next

There is no official release date yet for the Nike LeBron NXT Gen 'JW' collaboration, but Nike says it will launch this spring and retail for around $170.

The takeaway

This unique collaboration between LeBron James and JuJu Watkins represents Nike's investment in the next generation of basketball talent, showcasing the brand's ability to elevate rising stars and pass the torch to the future of the sport.