Despite all the troublesome controversies circling NBA star Ja Morant, his newest signature shoe, Ja 1 “Hunger” colorway, sold out on the SNKRS app just minutes after being released on Thursday at 10 a.m.
Ja 1 “Hunger” Was Released Thursday Morning Despite Ja Morant’s Recent Gun Backlash
Nike released the shoe Thursday morning and lucky sneakerheads who were waiting patiently for the opportunity to buy them got them for $110. According to TMZ Sports, the shoes sold out in less than four minutes.
The story behind the signature shoes on Nike.com reads, “Ja Morant made it out the mud by tirelessly shooting on crooked rims, jumping on tractor tires, and dribbling through traffic cones in the steamy South Carolina heat. His skills as a high school baller only brought him so far—it took an unmatched inner hunger to make the world see what he was capable of.”
The description goes on to continue his story.
“When Ja wasn’t picked first string at an elite summer camp, that might have been the end of his hoops career. But that’s not how this story goes. He kept putting in work in an out-of-the-way gym, grinding in the shadows. All Ja needed was the right person to see his skills. The rest is history.”
Many took to Twitter to complain that they weren’t able to get a pair. YouTube Guy tweeted that only a little over 2,000 pairs were being released on the SNKRS app.
Latest I’ve heard: Stock was pulled & put back. I’ve heard a little over 2,000 pairs are dropping burn they are releasing the Ja 1 “Hunger” tomorrow after all. Apparently some convos behind closed doors but ultimately a tiny amount dropping on SNKRS. I said if I was wrong I would… pic.twitter.com/nNnLvCO9dt
— YouTube Guy (@SneakerPhetish) May 24, 2023
The Memphis Grizzlies star, 23, signed a multi-year deal in 2019 with Nike, becoming Nike’s first Gen Z signature athlete.
Nike has been silent about Morant‘s second Instagram Live gun incident, but after the first one back in March, they released a statement.
“We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being,” the company’s statement reads.
Ja Morant Shared Cryptic Instagram Stories Amid His Current Suspension From Team Activities
On Wednesday morning, Morant shared a series of confusing Instagram Stories. But if you blinked, you likely missed them because he quickly deleted them all. He shared a photo of him with his mom, one with his dad and one with his young daughter. The last Story he shared is a photo of him doing an interview on the court with “bye” written on it.
Many who saw what he posted shared their concerned for his mental health and safety. The police ended up visiting Morant for a welfare check at his Tennessee home following the Stories being shared and then deleted.
“Shelby County Sheriff’s Office deputies checked on Ja Morant at his residence this morning and he is fine,” a spokesperson said. “He advised us that he is taking a break from social media.”
After Morant‘s second incident of flashing a gun during an Instagram Live nearly two weeks ago, the NBA star issued a statement taking accountability for his actions once again.
“I know I’ve disappointed many people who have supported me,” his apology statement began.
“This is a journey, and I recognize there is more work to do. My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”
