Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker debuted his first signature shoe with Nike just a year ago, and since then, we’ve seen an array of colorways. Some highlight personal aspects of Booker’s life, like the Haven Book 1’s, named after his pit bull, while others, such as the Moss Point Book 1’s, pay tribute to his roots.
Athletes across the board have embraced the Book 1’s, showcasing them on the court. This year, Booker is set to release Suns-themed colorways, including the Court Purple/Sundial later in the year. And let’s not forget the Forrest Gump and Nike Cortez-inspired Book 1’s, which will drop sometime this season. With such a timeless design, it’s no wonder these shoes have spawned so many variations that people love.
With the colorways come the drops, and Booker continues to surprise and delight in this area. Today he gifted the Michigan State basketball team, whose home court he will be playing tonight against the Detroit Pistons, a special and unique “Sparty PE”.
A “PE,” or “Player Edition,” refers to a special line of footwear crafted specifically for professional athletes, designed with unique features or colorways that make them stand out on the court. Unlike standard releases, PEs are not available for retail, making them exclusive to the players who wear them during games.
It’s a level of exclusivity that reflects the personalized nature of these shoes, showcasing designs tailored to each player’s style or team affiliation, creating a sense of rarity and prestige that fans admire but can’t easily access. In this case, that’s Michigan State basketball.
Yes, that’s Tom Izzo holding a pair of Book 1’s. As the head coach of Michigan State, a Nike-sponsored school, it’s no surprise he collaborated with the brand to create these exclusive PE’s. The partnership not only highlights Booker’s connection to Nike but also strengthens the relationship between the university and the brand.
Izzo extended that connection to his team, ensuring every player received a pair, symbolizing unity and Nike’s investment in both the program and the players who embody its spirit. It’s a gesture that underscores the intersection of athletics, loyalty, and branding.
This certainly won’t hurt MSU recruiting…
