Chinese footwear giant 361° has just released the JOKER 1, the first signature shoe of its brand ambassador Nikola Jokić.
The NBA superstar made an appearance at the highly anticipated "Disrupting The Game" event held at Denver's Ball Arena yesterday, ushering in a new global era for 361°.
Debuting the sneaker for the crowd at the Denver Nuggets' home arena, Jokić signed autographs and hung out with fans to create an unforgettable experience.
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In a press release, Jokić highlighted how his teammate Aaron Gordon, who is also a 361° global brand ambassador, united him with the brand, helping establish the partnership.
Following a successful U.S. launch, the shoe will pop up in Belgrade, Serbia — Jokić's home country — on December 7. Meanwhile, China will see two exclusive launches in Chengdu and Hangzhou later this month.
By partnering with an NBA star, 361° solidifies its commitment to successfully penetrating the global market.
Sports brand deals are some of the most lucrative and successful instances of influencer partnerships, often resulting in massive success for both parties.
Unleash Your Inner Jester
The JOKER 1 signature logo is inspired by a jester's hat, with stars to signify the athlete's many awards and honors.
The shoe itself features significant advancements in shoe engineering, such as lightweight construction and maximum breathability.
A full-length cushioning system ensures optimal responsiveness, while a TPU wrap gives added stability.
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Additionally, the brand has plans to expand its partnership with the popular basketball player.
Jokić's signature line will eventually include a full range of apparel, footwear, and basketball gear.
Earlier in April, the athlete appeared in a spicy campaign for Hotels.com.
