First Look: Lamelo Ball’s First PUMA Signature Shoe, the MB.01

After a stellar debut NBA season, receiving league-wide accolades and winning NBA’s Rookie of the Year Award, LaMelo Ball has another personal accomplishment to announce: his first signature shoe with PUMA. Global sports company PUMA has officially unveiled NBA superstar LaMelo Ball’s first PUMA signature basketball shoe, the MB.01.

The MB.01 marks PUMA Hoops’ first signature shoe release since re-launching its basketball category in 2018. MB.01 joins the lineup of PUMA’s iconic basketball signature shoes named after basketball legends Walt "Clyde” Frazier and Ralph Sampson.

MB.01 was co-designed by LaMelo, incorporating his personal style throughout the shoe from bold colour choices to intricate unique details, including an artistic outline of flames shooting down from the ankle collar that lines up to Melo’s famed rocket ankle tattoo.

The tongue of the shoe includes LaMelo’s “Not from Here” creative and the outsole showcases the word “rare,” which describes his talent on the hardwood.

Additional technology features of the MB.01 includes PUMA’s Nitro Foam throughout the midsole for superior responsiveness and comfort, full coverage non-slip rubber compound for enhanced durability and traction, and breathable monomesh for a supportive and ultra-lightweight feel. The 3D-printed disruptive upper construction completes the shoe’s sleek design.

Retailing for R3 199, the MB.01 is available from PUMA.com, PUMA V&A Waterfront, Braamfontein and Gateway, and Shesha.