Chicago Bulls Star Matas Buzelis Teams Up With Reebok To Fuel Next Generation Of 'Engine A'

Reebok has unveiled the "Engine A 26," marking the latest evolution in the footwear giant's groundbreaking performance basketball franchise.

The new model is slated for release on Friday, February 27, 2026, and will debut in three distinct colorways.

Reebok continues to assert its dominance in the sneaker industry, building on the momentum of its partnership with WNBA star Angel Reese and her signature "AR1" line.

According to an official press release sent to The Blast, Reebok's new "Engine A 26" will launch this coming Friday in three colorways: the "Cheetah," the "Asym Atomic Tangerine/Digital Lime," and "Chalk/Black."

This latest iteration evolves the franchise by building on Reebok’s trademarked ERS technology platform and integrating an updated drop-in SuperFloat POD for enhanced court feel.

Designed for explosive power, the "Engine A 26" features targeted upper support for agility, along with an updated herringbone traction pattern for unmatched court grip.

The "Engine A 26" will be showcased on court by Reebok’s elite hoops roster, Team RBK.B, featuring standouts like Lexie Brown, DiJonai Carrington, and Aneesah Morrow.

Other basketball players, including Nate Ament, Dink Pate, Tre Mann, and Matas Buzelis, will also rock the court in the upcoming weeks.

Speaking about the new design, Buzelis, who was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 2024, had only positive things to say about the next generation of the Engine A in a statement.

"The Engine A 26 feels fast and has power. As the Engine A platform evolves, it’s exactly what athletes need to take their game to the next level," he said.

Reebok’s latest venture comes nearly three years after the Boston-headquartered brand launched the original sneaker alongside Chicago Sky standout Angel Reese.

"Reebok has stood on business about me since day one," Reese said about the design on August 20, 2024. "Everything that I’ve wanted, all the creative control, I’ve gotten. [Reebok president of basketball] Shaq [O’Neal] told me I was going to be the face of Reebok, and I continue to be that. Being able to debut the new basketball shoe today, of course, I’m excited for it."

The initial Engine A launched 13 years after Reebok released a signature basketball shoe, following the October 2012 release of former NBA star John Wall's "Zig Escape."

One year later, Reese unveiled her own signature shoe, the "AR1."

The shoe initially hit retailers in September 2025 before selling out shortly after, according to The Blast.

"... it's my style, my story, and my stamp on the game," said Reese. "Reebok and I built something that's true to who I am, and I hope it pushed others to stand in their power, too," she added. "At the end of the day, it's built for basketball — made to move and perform at the highest level."

In February 2026, the LSU alum launched another collection, comprising "Rose Dust," "Navy Halo," "Gala Green," and "Unapologetically Angel."

Reebok's partnership with Reese makes sense, as the shoewear company has used some of the WNBA's growing talent over the last few years to help market its comeback to the sport.

"The WNBA continues to grow with iconic brands, and we look forward to Reebok joining us in driving women’s basketball to new heights and inspiring the next generation," said WNBA Chief Growth Officer Colie Edison. "As we continue to capitalize on increased brand awareness, our work with Reebok is another step in bringing more fans to the game."

The company's president, Shaquille O'Neal, also spoke about the company, calling it an "exciting time for Reebok ... and the game of basketball overall."

"Reebok has always been committed to supporting the growth of the sport, and now with a strong plan, the right resources, and the welcoming arms of the WNBA, we’re ready to dive in headfirst with everything from product to players and more," he finished.