Harden Debuts 'Marathon' Sneakers in Tribute to Nipsey Hussle

NBA star James Harden pays homage to his late friend on the anniversary of Hussle's death.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:59am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In his first game back in Los Angeles since being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, NBA veteran James Harden debuted a special edition of his Adidas sneakers to honor his late friend, rapper Nipsey Hussle. Harden and Hussle were close, and the new 'Marathon' colorway of Harden's 10th signature shoe features the logo of Hussle's clothing store. Harden played the game on the sixth anniversary of Hussle's death, which occurred near Harden's hometown.

Why it matters

Harden's tribute to Hussle highlights the deep personal connection between the NBA star and the slain rapper, who was a beloved figure in the Los Angeles community. The sneaker release also underscores the lasting impact of Hussle's life and work, which continues to inspire athletes, artists, and fans alike.

The details

Harden suited up for the Cavaliers on Tuesday, less than two months after being traded from the LA Clippers. The Cavaliers were in Los Angeles to play the Lakers, giving Harden the opportunity to remember Hussle, who was killed in 2019 outside his clothing store in the Crenshaw neighborhood. Harden debuted the 'Marathon' colorway of his 10th Adidas sneaker, which features the flag logo of Hussle's store. The shoes will be released in limited quantities on April 12.

  • Harden played on the sixth anniversary of Hussle's death on March 31.
  • The 'Marathon' sneakers will be released on April 12.

The players

James Harden

An NBA veteran who is currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Harden and the late rapper Nipsey Hussle were close friends, and Harden used his return to Los Angeles to pay tribute to Hussle.

Nipsey Hussle

A Grammy-nominated rapper who was shot and killed in 2019 outside his clothing store in the Crenshaw neighborhood of Los Angeles. Hussle was a beloved figure in the LA community and his legacy continues to inspire athletes, artists, and fans.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Today is a special day, just celebrating the life of Hussle. Did a lot of amazing things for the world, especially the L.A. community. And I wanted to show love, I wanted to show my appreciation to him. It's been seven years, but his legacy — the marathon is still being run.”

— James Harden

“This is completely new for me. I've never had so much confidence in just, like, playing a guy. … He plays at his own pace, he never overdoes anything in terms of conserving energy. There's some guys that play a million miles an hour, and he's just got a pace about him. He's so smart about the game that you feel more comfortable.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Cavaliers Head Coach

What’s next

The 'Marathon' sneakers designed by Adidas and The Marathon Clothing in tribute to Nipsey Hussle will be released in limited quantities on April 12.

The takeaway

James Harden's tribute to his late friend Nipsey Hussle through the debut of his special edition 'Marathon' sneakers underscores the lasting impact of Hussle's life and work, which continues to inspire athletes, artists, and fans in the Los Angeles community and beyond.