Sole Shift Issue 2

NO.2 The TORONTO ISSUE

shifting perspectives, one pair at a time

Basketball. footwear. performance. culture. the toronto issue

Co-Founder / Editor in Chief Duane Watson Co-Founder - Jason Tiangco Associate Editor - Ray Bala Creative Director -Craig White Photo Editor - Charlie Lindsay Web Master - Angelo Manalili Contributors Sean Francois, Colin Garraway, Rey Roncesvalles, Ryan Gonzalez, James Boughton, Hieram Weintraub, Charles Stanislaw, Yasin Osman, Jober Guevarra, Sharmarke Abdi, Jamaal Thomas, Nathaniel S. Butler, Will Strickland, Alan Johnson, Marc Griffin, Ostertag, Dr. Joel Kerr, Vinicius De Moura, Alysha Galbraith and Jalani Morgan

C ove r imag e: Photography by Charlie lindsay illustration by Ostertag @ostertagmademedoit

F E B RU ARY 20 1 6 , No. 2 Sole Shift is published four times a year. @SOLESHIFT

03

SOLE SHIFT

editorial: the toronto issue

tip-off, While the 65th NBA All-Star Weekend will shine a spotlight on Toronto, our second issue is a testament to everything we have known for quite some time now. We have been a city of rising stars and all-stars, constantly fighting, demanding and earning respect. We have one team that represents our Nation, backed by communities full of basketball superstars.

Sit back and take in the photo essay - a visual tour of the hard courts that are our battlegrounds, listen to a verbal account of a young gun firing off 103 points and take a look back to the beginnings of Toronto basketball. You can’t say Toronto without saying All-Star and this issue embraces the stars and kicks of present and future – paying tribute to the players and their footwear from past February showcases.

My Sole Shift team… rather my All-Star lineup of writers and creatives, stepped up to make this issue a reflection of what we’re about – storytelling, performance and the culture of the game we love. Welcome to The 6ix.

Duane “Sweets” Watson

Con ten ts 6

8

10

22

26

29

38

51

The contributors

Baseline Health Tips By Dr. J

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

Wants & Needs

essentials: the all-star edition

pj tucker: mr. pick & choose

the 1996 nba all-star game

performance review: the adidas D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit

XXX: Celebrating 30 by going 1 On 1

53

05

SOLE SHIFT

contents

14 16

19

32 34

37

Fadeaway to Black

performance the curry review: TWO: THE adidas recipe for crazylight boost 2.5 success

the day the magic came back

performance review: the nike kyrie 2

5 second call: justise winslow

Started: Toronto Basketball

performance review: the nike kobe 11

player's perspective: ahmed ali

56 60 65 71

dear kobe: a legacy in letters

unboxed: xavier rathan-mayes

63 73

footwork: by next year

The Con trib u Ryan Gonzales CONTRIBUTOR

Favourite Basketball Shoe: Nike Zoom LEBRON 2 A 5'10 and 2/3” power forward from the University of Toronto, Ryan's career jersey number has always been 34.

It's only fitting because his game can only be described as a Paul Pierce/Ray Allen/Charles Barkley/Lakers Shaq/ Hakeem Olajuwon/Corliss Williamson hybrid, with mad heart and unstoppable integrity. An unapologetic, incurable Lakers fan, Ryan firmly believes the 2016 – 17 Lakers starting lineup will consist of Kevin Durant, Kevin Love, Ben Simmons, D'Angelo Russell and Nick Young.

Craig White

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Favourite Basketball Shoe: Reebok Pump Twilight Zone Craig is a basketball fan and sneakerhead with specific tastes. That’s all forgiven due to his 13 years of experience in the design world, as everything from a creative gopher to art directing for National brands. He plays basketball like Andy Warhol, and does art like Jason Williams. Or maybe it’s the other way around…

07

SOLE SHIFT

uto rs

contributors

Photos by Jalani Morgan

Jason Tiangco CO-FOUNDER

Favourite Basketball Shoe: Nike Air Max Elite 2002 A self-proclaimed R&D nerd, who gets excited by gear, tech and the design stories behind the products that directly enhance an athlete’s spirit. Once a gym rat, now more so a veteran of the game, he continually aims to share stories with those passionate about basketball and innovation. As co-founder of Sole Shift, Tiangco hopes to continue to build the basketball community in his city of Toronto.

Will Strickland COLUMNIST

Favourite Basketball Shoe: Jordan III Black Cement OG A sneaker fiend before he became a teen, Strickland, aka The Entreprenillionaire, has kept a keen eye for classic, exclusive and unique butters despite not buying a pair for himself since 1986. A habitual line stepper, thought remixer, social anthropologist and animal with the verbs and nouns, oversees SoleShift’s Footwork column, regaling the global kicks community with tales of sneakers, hip hop, basketball and life because the job of resurrectors is to wake up the dead!

Boys among men by jonathan abrams

$37

www.chapters.indigo.ca

The Granny shirt

by Smithee

$24

www.smitheeco.com

UNDER ARMOUR HEALTH BOX

$400

www.underarmour.com

09

SOLE SHIFT

WANTS & NEEDS

Stance ASG and Rising stars socks

$28

www.stance.com

The Legends League X Mitchell & Ness North All-Star jersey

$250

www.legendsleague.com

adidas all-star warm-up jacket

$200

www.adidas.ca

The AllSole Shift picked their starting five of essential All-Star shoes.

By Alan Johnson / photos by Charlie Lindsay

Air Jordan III This shoe takes us back (some of us anyway) to 1988 sitting in our living room watching Dominique Wilkins and Michael Jordan compete for the highly coveted Slam Dunk title at Chicago Stadium.

We’ve seen many impressive displays at the All-Star Weekend in the years since but what was witnessed that evening was poetry in motion. It would become a duel of aerial artists each challenging the other to new heights, mesmerizing us with each successive attempt. We also couldn’t keep our eyes off of MJ’s shoes, which became easily a favourite of the entire Air Jordan line. On this night Jordan secured his second of back-to-back Slam Dunk titles and ended his participation in the annual event. We still can relive this moment every time Nike releases the white/cement colourway of the AJ III. From the personal collection of @qtarantado

11

SOLE SHIFT

essentials: the all-star edition

-Star Edition CONVERSE All-Star Classic, classic, classic! When we think of pioneers of the shoe game we always go back to Converse “Chuck Taylor” All-Stars. Though they’re from an earlier time, we should understand their importance in today’s shoe culture. 1951 marked the inaugural NBA All-Star Game and these kicks were the shoe of choice for first ever game MVP “Easy” Ed Macauley, who edged out teammate Dolph Shayes for the game’s top honour. There is nothing to them – rubber outsole and canvas uppers. They were rugged shoes for a rugged, early NBA that have gone largely unchanged in form today.

From the personal collection of @joeisthenewblack

Reebok Omni Pump Lite “Pump Up and Air Out” was part of Reebok’s marketing campaign back in 1991 for their newest creation the Pump. The design was simple; a basketball shaped air pump mechanism on the tongue which, when depressed, would fill air packets strategically placed throughout the shoe. During the that year's Slam Dunk contest, Dee Brown demonstrated this by bending forward before each dunk to pump up his shoes, seemingly “pumping him up” for each slam. Reebok scored a 50 that day, as Brown took the crown with the now famous “no look” dunk. This would make the Omni’s one of the most recognizable shoes to come from the event, ever.

From the personal collection of @canballreport_nph

NIKE Air Jordan I The 1985 All-Star Game is commonly known as the infamous “Freeze Out” game. After feeling slighted by Jordan the night before during an elevator ride, Isiah Thomas orchestrated a Michael Jordan boycott of sorts during his first All-Star Game. Jordan shot 2 for 9 from the field and when informed of the Thomas-led movement seemed rather surprised. Ever the self-motivator, MJ got his revenge against the Pistons two days later with a 49 point 15, rebound gem for the Chicago win.

The shoes of choice for that performance? The Air Jordan 1, the exact same colourway that he wore at the All Star Game. The red, black and white hi-tops just floating to layups and angry throw-downs surely caught Thomas’ eye on the way to a Piston’s loss. How is that for irony, Zeke?

From the personal collection of @qtarantado

13

SOLE SHIFT

essentials: the all-star edition

Nike Zoom Generation Before he played in his first All-Star Game, LeBron James participated in the 2004 Rookie Challenge.

Though the game featured future perennial All-Stars in Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and Carmelo Anthony, the Cavaliers forward’s star shined the brightest.

While James dazzled as expected to the tune of 33 points, what was particularly eye catching was the wheat colourway of his first Nike sneaker, the Zoom Generation. Looking outside the box for this model, Nike outfitted the whole upper with nubuck that was reportedly waterproof. While some viewers at home may have wondered, “Why is LeBron wearing construction boots to play basketball?” Nike won yet again, as eyes were probably drawn to his feet the entire night.

From the personal collection of @solepurpose

Bonus 6th Man And 1 Tai Chi We should all still remember Vince Carter’s opening dunk for the 2000 Slam Dunk contest in Oakland a 360 windmill “against the grain” as colour commentator Danny Ainge explained during the telecast. We were left speechless as this was the first time anyone had ever seen anything like this in a dunk contest. For the duration of the event, most of us probably just sat in disbelief with mouths agape, trying to process what we had just watched. A sneaker free agent at the time, Vince fitted himself with the AND 1 Tai Chi significantly lifting AND 1’s place in the basketball sneaker world while elevating him to superstar status. Who can forget the two-tone red and white leather and nubuck upper blurs that punctuated his ferocious dunks? AND 1 may never get to be on top of the sneaker mountain, but this pair will always live forever in basketball fans’ minds.

From the personal collection of @meachdasilva

Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

Fadeaway to Black by duane watson / photos by brand black & charlie lindsay

Aside from being a two-time winner of the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year Award and living up to his “J. Crossover” nickname by getting to the basket and scoring in bunches, it’s hard to forget that Jamal Crawford once did an endorsement deal with Jay-Z’ S. Carter line with RBK a decade ago. So when Brand Black surfaced in 2014 and did a signature shoe with the Clippers guard, expectations were minimal.

Yet the collaboration didn’t suffer the same fate, as they continued to develop, balancing the importance of athletic and aesthetic while forging their own lane in a competitive sneaker market. Now, unfazed and undaunted they are here as players in the game with a fresh pair of kicks in the J. Crossover III.

15

SOLE SHIFT

fadeaway to black

SoleShift:You've been in the league for 15 years, what's the biggest change you've seen in the sneaker industry?

Crawford: I think now people are more open minded.

There always was one or two bigger companies that people went with and they felt safe and they grew up on it. There’s noting wrong with that, but I think people are trying to make their own trends and their own moves instead of going by the status quo.

What brought you to Brand Black?

Crawford: That exact thing. I remember Allen Iverson and Reebok and it was different at the time, and I had every pair of Iverson’s and Reebok was fresh again.

Obviously I’m not Iverson, but, when I’m done playing basketball 10 years, 15 years from now, I can look back and be like, I helped launch Brand Black.

How involved are you in the design process of the J. Crossover?

Crawford: Very involved. The J. Crossover I not so much, but then the II to the III and moving forward, very involved.

What are some of the things that you wanted to improve, or get more out of in the J. Crossover III? Crawford: The first one looked like it was a straight fashion shoe. I wanted to make it more basketballoriented and the second one was great and the transition I was happy with that. The third one was polarizing; it forced you to have an opinion. Whether you liked it or not, you had to decide one way or another. It wasn’t like uhhh, it was “I like it or I don’t” and that’s what I wanted.

....people are trying to make their own trends and their own moves instead of going by the status quo.

10 years, 15 years from now, I can look back and be like, I helped launch Brand Black.

What do you like most about the J. Crossover III from an aesthetic and technical standpoint?

Sole Shift

Crawford: That it doesn’t look likeFinal anything else.

Logo Design All Colour Variations I like the shroud cause it has my kids’ names on it and Seattle where I’m from. Technically, I love how comfortable it is. There have been no varied reports about how comfortable the shoe is.

What can we expect from you and Brand Black in the future?

Crawford: To always be forward thinkers, we’ve seen bigger brands copy some of the things we’ve done in the past, so that’s obviously a hat tip. We’ll just continue to grow and think things through.

By Jason Tiangco / Photos by charlie lindsay

17

SOLE SHIFT

performance review: the adidas crazylight boost 2.5

The adidas Crazylight Boost 2.5 will be one of the official shoes making its appearance during NBA All-Star Weekend. As the All-Star Game is being hosted north of the border for the first time, the designers drew inspiration from the Aurora Borealis, the bright colours synonymous with the Northern Lights found in the northern most parts of Canada, along with the cultural diversity of the festivities’ host city, Toronto.

Traction tests were similar to the Crazylight Boost Primeknit. since the Crazylight Boost 2.5 utilized the same multi-directional herringbone pattern. As a result, the consensus was solid traction on both clean and dusty courts, with long-term durability being the only major concern for the outsole.

TRACTION: 8 INDOOR CLEAN COURT, 7.5 DUSTY/OUTDOOR COURT

Boost cushioning, which is now becoming the standard in adidas basketball’s higher end models, was utilized in the heel providing both bounce and impact protection like only Boost can.

Nevertheless, with EVA foam utilized in the forefoot, the cushioning felt too firm at times. There would be a slight trade-off with this combination of great impact protection in the heel and heightened court feel, in exchange for a slightly unforgiving forefoot and a slightly segmented transition from heel to forefoot.

CUSHIONING: 7.5

Watch the Sole Shift Performance Review

Where the Crazylight Boost 2.5 shines, is in the Fit and Lockdown category. The upper is seamless with a beautiful mix of Primeknit and Mesh that results in a comfortable and highly breathable fit. With the right amount of synthetic overlays, a beefed-up medial side consisting of a heavier, more tightly woven Primeknit and an asymmetrical lacing system, you are definitely locked in at all times, regardless of your speed of play or direction in which you go. The key inclusion of a Stableframe upon the midsole carrier, integrated mid-foot shank and external heel counter, scored high with our weartesters in regards to stability.

The Crazylight Boost 2.5 toe box roominess is somewhat generous, and may fit a bit longer than you’re used to, so you may have to go down half a size if you want a snug fit. It’s recommended you try these on before making your purchase.

FIT & LOCKDOWN: 8.5 Final Thoughts If you’re a quick or guard that’s looking for a light package Soleforward Shift Final Logo Design that isn’t goingAllto slow you down then check out the Crazylight Colour Variations Boost 2.5’s. They provide good court feel, solid traction, are highly breathable and with just enough cushioning for protection while still keeping you nimble on your toes.

Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

Overall Score: 24 of 30

19

SOLE SHIFT

The curry two:recipe for success

The Curry Two: Recipe for Success

by duane watson / photos by Under Armour

Last season, Stephen Curry was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player and led the Golden State Warriors to an NBA championship, all in the first year wearing his signature shoe the Under Armour Curry One. The unstoppable point guard wasn’t the only one that flourished. Under Armour reported higher earnings powered in part by the popularity of their marquee basketball pitchman. Stating that one of the biggest attributes for growth during the fourth quarter was “the success of the Curry signature line,” which contributed to a 95% increase in footwear sales. Sole Shift spoke with Rashad Williams, Director, Basketball Footwear at Under Armour to talk the Curry Two, design, inspiration and meeting the needs of an elite athlete.

How much input does Stephen Curry contribute into the design process of the Curry Two? We always start with the athlete, so with him, we start every season as we go in to build his next shoe. What’s going to be new and better and how do we improve?

So say for example the Curry One, see what worked for him and look to improve it. He has a lot of input from the very beginning.

How much does his style of play dictate the design of the shoe?

It dictates it a lot. To give you a snapshot, when we go in and really just try to talk about the concept of the shoe and the performance needs, it’s usually based on what Stephen is trying to improve on. So If he’s working more on his ball handling, or working on getting to the basket a little bit more, that dictates a lot in how we design the shoe and some of the insights that go into it.

He wanted a shoe that allowed him stability and that allowed him to be quick as well.

What did he like from the Curry One that he wanted to add on for the Curry Two?

What was the main inspiration he wanted to bring to the Curry Two?

He had a pretty successful season in the shoe and he loved the stability and the Charged Foam, the cushioning that we had in it. So those are two things that we keyed in on, to make sure he had stability in the Two and continue with the Charged Foam in the midsole and heel area.

The main influence was around innovation. One thing he emphasized is that he wanted a shoe that allowed him stability and that allowed him to be quick as well.

So that led us to look at our SpeedForm technology that we started off with in running, but it has a seamless heel and a light textile upper and that’s something that we haven’t used in basketball before. That was the biggest insight he gave us from an innovation standpoint.

21

SOLE SHIFT

The curry two:recipe for success

He has a lot of rich history, he’s lived in a lot of places, of course Toronto being one of them. So we really try to take some pieces of his life How has the Curry Two put Under Armour in the discussion from a basketball standpoint?

It’s definitely brought more awareness to our brand, especially when you talk about younger consumers, high school guys and junior high school guys. They really start to look to our brand saying “Ok these guys are legitimate players in the basketball market.” I think that’s been a big plus for us and we’re starting to see it from a grassroots level.

There hasn’t been a shortage of colourways for the Curry Two… The way we approach it goes back to how many stories or concepts you want to put out for that season. We look to Steph a lot for his life, whether it’s him, his dad, or his family or friends. One thing I always tell people is, he’s only one of I guess two or three guys, who has a signature shoe and their father played in the NBA. So there’s a lineage there if you talk about

Kobe, Steph and if you want to throw Klay Thompson in there. He has a lot of rich history, he’s lived in a lot of places, of course Toronto being one of them. So we really try to take some pieces ofSole hisShift life from that Final Logo Design standpoint.

All Colour Variations With successful runs with the Curry One and Two, what’s next with the Curry Three?

I think the most difficult thing right now is, not over obsessing on it. We’re going for a new direction in the Curry Three, where the Curry One and Two have been very similar - the Three is going to look a bit different from its two predecessors. I think the hardest thing for us now, is not obsessing over how it looks, I think we’re in a great space.

When Doctor Becomes Patient

By Dr. Joel Kerr

I have been in practice for over ten years and have seen many types of sports injuries. On September 6th , the doctor became the patient, as I was able to immediately diagnosis trauma that occurred to my own knee. While hooping at my usual Sunday run at ‘The Church’ on the Danforth, I watched a shot go up and bounce high off the rim, almost hitting the low ceiling of the basement gym.

Standing at the top of the key and shaking off the rust of not playing for two months, I didn’t even attempt to jump for the rebound.

My teammate, ten years younger and far more active, was already in the air as an opposing player was also in battle for the rebound.

The opposing player didn’t have a chance on the play unless he fouled my teammate. The consequence of this foul is the reason for this story.

My teammate was pushed in the air by the opposing player and came crashing down on the outside of my leg… CRACK! I heard the sound and at that moment I looked down and saw the inside of my knee down on the ground with my lower leg pointing to the outside.

I know too much about anatomy and sports injuries at this point in my career and was certain that my medial collateral ligament (MCL) was shredded and I was praying that my anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial meniscus were intact. I was devastated. Ironically being within the sport medical profession I have never sustained a serious injury before.

On my way to the hospital, I decided to conduct a social experiment. I wanted to go through the system as a ‘regular’ person. I did not identify myself as a chiropractic sport doctor

23

SOLE SHIFT

baseline health tips by dr. j : WHEN DOCTOR BECOMES PATIENT

CRACK! The sound I heard and at that moment, I looked down and saw the inside of my knee down on the ground with my lower leg pointing to the outside.

or as an individual with an understanding of human anatomy and sport injuries. As a result of my experiment the experience revealed to me some inadequacies of the hospital system.

The interaction with the emergency doctor was brief and it appeared I was bothering him with my injury.

Lastly, the reluctance to order soft tissue imaging was difficult for me to accept as I was certain that there was structural damage.

I was given a pair of crutches, a removable cast that covered my leg to my hip, a requisition to see an orthopaedic surgeon four weeks later, a promise for an MRI within the six to eight month range and a bag full of medication to relieve pain, swelling and the nausea these medications caused. I was uncomfortable in the brace, super annoyed by using crutches and being a total dependent on my wife to drive me to and from work because my right knee had sustained the injury. Life was rough, depression was creeping in, especially when I had to slum it and take public transit with my cast and crutches to an important business meeting.

The peak of my level of frustration reached it's limit and contacted a colleague who is a radiologist and had an MRI the next day, and the results provided some good and bad news. Good news first: ACL and PCL were intact! Bad news: MCL as suspected was torn. In addition to this soft tissue damage I also tore a deep muscle in the back of my knee called the popliteus and I suffered an impaction fracture to the medial tibal plateau. Please note: The results of the imaging does not change the treatment plan, it simply gives a guide to how aggressive the treatment plan can be delivered.

I was uncomfortable in the brace, super annoyed by using crutches and being a total dependent on my wife to drive me to and from work...

With this confirmed knowledge, I immediately began to treat myself with electro-acupuncture. The needle placement had to be specific with emphasis on neuromuscular re-integration to promote healing of the soft tissues that were injured. Electro-acupuncture is effective for the therapeutic purpose of changing the abnormal activity that occurs when an injury is sustained to the muscular, nervous and endocrine systems. I was able to actively engage the muscles of my thigh-hamstrings everyday with electrical stimulation, similar to the concept of jump-starting a battery, my hamstring muscles were actively stimulated. The hamstring muscle is comprised of three distinct muscles with all three having a significant role in the health and protection of the knee joint and it was important to have it actively stimulated.

I can say without a doubt that consistent therapy, specific to the needs of my injury was highly effective and increased the healing and recovery time. I administered acupuncture to myself every night for over a month, with placement around the popliteus muscle to assist in healing of the muscle. Needle placement within my hamstrings was focused on the attachment sites past or to the posterior aspect of the knee. Electro-stimulation to the hamstring muscle group expedited the healing of the injury because it increased the function of ‘the protectors’ of the knee.

baseline health tips by dr. j : WHEN DOCTOR BECOMES Sole Shift PATIENT

SOLE SHIFT

25

The increased healing capacity of my serious injury can also be attributed to the healthy lifestyle I lead everyday. This would include more than adequate amounts of water, a balanced meal of protein and vegetables, regular exercise, positive thinking/mental imagery and optimal hours of sleep. At The Health Institute, we call these The 4 Pillars of Health: what does it take to be a healthy professional, person, athlete, human? Application of these four basic principals on a daily basis is a contributing factor as to the speed of my recovery.

Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

is now focused on regaining strength and mobility throughout the joints of my lower body not inclusive to my knee. This major injury that I sustained allowed me to gain a greater appreciation for those who sustained knee injuries especially athletes (Female>Male).

I am fully aware of the highs and lows of rehabilitation more so now, and as a result I will exhibit more empathy towards my patients who sustain sports injuries.

Am I 100% healed? No. But my recovery is well ahead of the outcomes that are typical for the multiple injuries I sustained. The phase of my rehabilitation

“On my way to the hospital, I decided to conduct a social experiment. I wanted to go through the system as a ‘regular’ person.”

Take Home Message:

1.

Seek immediate medical assistance when a soft tissue injury occurs.

2.

Ask questions of your medical therapist. Outcome measures, return to play status?

3.

Take note that your eating habits, hydration, above average therapy = training and rest are imperative to allow the body to heal.

4.

Avoidance of alcohol, processed foods (fried or baked goods), sugar and fat is important as they promote inflammation in the body creating a difficult environment for the body to heal.

5.

Positive thinking and mental imagery is a powerful tool in the rehabilitation industry.

PJ Tucke mr. pick & choose by duane watson / ILLUSTRATIONS by CRAIG WHITE Small beads of sweat dot P.J. Tucker's brow as he sits in a corner stall in the Phoenix Suns locker room. The mood is light as teammates file in and out for pregame shoot around, and an assistant coach draws up defensive schemes on the whiteboard. Game film flashes on the monitor capturing rookie Devin Booker’s attention, while Tyson Chandler is being stretched by a trainer in the middle of the room.

Tucker is cooling down after his warm up, wearing a gray Suns tee, compression tights, shorts and NBA-issue socks. He sits shoeless, gazing down in deep concentration. Contemplative, the focus of his attention is indiscernible. He breaks out of his pseudo-meditation to admit that he was wrestling over an age-old quandary - which shoes to wear for the game?

Tucker drew the ire of some “sneakerheads” online when he suited up this past November in a pair of Air Yeezy’s versus the Los Angeles Lakers.

Usually garnering opinion from his instagram followers, the Raleigh, North Carolina native goes it alone as he mulls between the Court Purple/Metallic Gold-Purple Venom KOBE IV, (Prelude Pack) and the White/Metallic GoldWhite Air Jordan X “OVO.” The beauty of social media is that it brings out the best and sometimes the worst in people. Tucker drew the ire of some “sneakerheads” online when he suited up this past November in a pair of Air Yeezy’s versus the Los Angeles Lakers. “It’s so funny, growing up we used to hoop in everything,” he says, pausing to reflect. “You should wear your shoes and enjoy wearing them.”

With those words, he decides to put his weighty decision on hold to talk about his passion for kicks, his first pair, performance vs. retros and more.

er 27

SOLE SHIFT

PJ TUCKEr: mr pick & choose

Where did your love for sneakers come from? What’s your all-time favourite shoe to play ball in?

Tucker: Just being a kid, getting every pair of J’s when they came out. Just been a shoe fanatic all my life, always loved shoes, it’s always been a part of me.

So now being in the league, it hasn’t stopped.

Tucker: My favourite shoe ever might be the Huarache 2K4, it’s hard for me to go against that. It’s the comfort… the stability, they don’t look as stable as they are, but they don’t give a lot of ankle support, What were your first pair of shoes? so they’re like low cuts almost but they’re not, and it's Tucker: My first pair of shoes were a pair of Jordans. still like three quarters, and the grip, they got one of I was born in ‘85, so when the Jordan I’s came out, my the best grip technology on the bottom, it’s crazy and mom bought me Jordans. its light. I love hooping in Jordan 8’s too.

“It’s so funny, growing up we used to hoop in everything,” he says, pausing to reflect. “You should wear your shoes and enjoy wearing them.”

Was that a big deal at the time when you got them?

Tucker: Man! I don’t remember, (Tucker was only a one year old at the time), but my mom literally still has that pair of shoes… crazy.

How do you find the performance on the retros holds up playing at the highest level?

Tucker: I think with some shoes, it’s just timeless technology that always works. No matter what and how new stuff is, the old classics are just some of the best hoop shoes to hoop in. It’s crazy even still today, I bring out a lot of OG’s and old stuff, like my Jordan ‘88’s are still some of my favourites. You play in them and they part and after a while they break and they crack, but while they’re good, they’re good.

Tucker pauses, then flashes a broad smile and confirms in a the-winner-is like tone, “I'm going with Soleright Shift as I'm in the OVO Jordan's tonight. It's only Final Logo Design Toronto,” as if the question had just been posed to All Colour Variations him. Clearly, his focus is on the important things.

With that, he continues to go about his game preparation and later trots out in the Suns starting lineup introductions in the Jordan X OVO’s. It’s clear that Tucker is about practicing what he preaches when he says, “You should wear your shoes and enjoy wearing them,” as he takes the floor in the KOBE IV’s to start the second half of the game. Truth be told, it’s not a bad philosophy to live by.

The 1996 NBA All-Star Game

29

SOLE SHIFT

the 1996 nba all-star game

A Retrospective

By Colin Garraway / Illustrations by james boughton @commonlight We all say it and we all think it. Many of us have that time in our minds that we look back upon fondly. Things were better and in many ways they were viewed as a starting point for where we are today. These Golden Eras are defined by the styles and culture of that time. With the 2016 NBA All-Star Game taking place outside of the United States for the first time in it’s 64 year history, new pressure put on Nike by its competitors, along with a new generation of stars ready to dominate the league, there is a belief among some that this All-Star Game may be that kind of event for this generation. Coincidentally enough, this game marks the 20th anniversary of the iconic 1996 All-Star Game held at the Alamodome in San Antonio, which in many ways still influences basketball and sneaker culture to this very day.

If you were to play an NBA word association game with fans and said “1996” many people would immediately spit out the word “draft,” because that year’s Draft was one of the best ever. What’s often forgotten is that the significance of the All-Star Game that preceded this. This was one of the most iconic and memorable All-Star Games in history. It featured eight current or future Hall of Famers (For the East: Michael Jordan, Grant Hill, Scottie Pippen and Shaquille O’Neal, for the West: Jason Kidd, Clyde Drexler, Charles Barkley and Hakeem Olajuwon). The game also was the culmination of the NBA’s 50th Anniversary, Jordan’s return to All-Star action and his controversial MVP award, those jerseys, and many of the shoes and technologies that are still popular today. In this retrospective we take a look back on four iconic shoes that were worn in the 1996 All-Star Game and their impact on shoes and sneaker culture today.

Michael Jordan (air Jordan XI) Michael Jordan wanted a shoe that was versatile enough to be worn on the basketball court and during formal settings. Tinker Hatfield made it happen, wrapping the then modern Air Jordan XI design in patent leather to create one of the most popular shoes of all time. Jordan first laced up the XI’s in the 1995 playoffs but the 1996 NBA season is the first full NBA season Jordan wore the shoe. Jordan Brand still releases these timeless shoes in different colourways every year and even now 20 years later they continue to be one of the most anticipated drops. Inspired by the Columbia colourway MJ wore in the 1996 All-Star Game, Jordan Brand released a ‘Legend Blue’ colourway of the shoes in 2014.

Shaquille O’Neal (Reebok Shaqnosis) Michael Jordan may have taken home the All-Star MVP in 1996 but there were more than a few people who thought Shaquille O’Neal should have taken home the honours. Shaq registered a game high 25 points and snatched 10 rebounds and led the Eastern Conference to victory in his Reebok Shaqnosis shoes. In the ‘90s Reebok was known for the unique designs of their shoes and the Shaqnosis was no different. The shoe featured a black and white hypnotic pattern on the upper and was designed to ‘hypnotize’ Shaq’s defenders. Seeing as Shaq averaged 26 and 11 in ‘95-‘96 it’s doubtful that he needed the extra advantage. Regardless, the Shaqnosis served as inspiration for future models such as the Reebok Blast which were predominantly worn by Nick Van Exel. The Shaqnosis would be the big man’s last signature shoe with the Orlando Magic as he would join the Los Angeles Lakers the following summer. Even even after leaving Reebok O’Neal has said that the shoes were among his favourite. The shoes were popular with fans as well, as they have retroed the Shaqnosis as recently as 2013.

Anfernee Hardaway (Air Penny 1) It’s easy for younger fans to not comprehend just how good Anfernee (Penny) Hardaway actually was. He was a combo guard with size, handle and the ability to do anything out there on the court. Hardaway was a player who, had he not had issues with injury, would be a lock for the Hall of Fame.

Penny also made sure that his feet looked as good as he played on the court and while many people associate retro with Michael Jordan, Hardaway was not far behind. Hardaway donned a PE version of his Air Penny 1’s, the predecessor to the more commonly known Foamposites in the 1996 All-Star Game. At the time the specific colourway (Black with Orlando blue trim) he wore was not available in stores, however due to the popularity of the shoe Nike retroed the shoe in 2014.

31

SOLE SHIFT

the 1996 nba all-star game

Sean Elliot, Jason Kidd, Juwan Howard, and Terrell Brandon (Nike Air Zoom Flight ’95) The Nike Air Zoom Flight ‘95’s were one of the most popular shoes worn during this game. In retrospect, these were one of the most influential shoes of its time because the bold, futuristic design would set the tone for Nike in the years to come. The shoe was the first to use carbon fiber paneling on the upper to provide lightweight support – and let’s not forget about that bold ‘bug eye’. The shoe also was a platform for Nike to market the Sole Shift Air Zoom name. Nike had previously implemented Air Zoom technology Final Logo Design All Colour Variations (then known as Tensile Air) however it was only during the 95-96 season they previewed the “Nike Air Zoom” name. Nike has continued to use both the Air Zoom name and technology, notably in the now legendary Nike Air Zoom Generation made for LeBron James and many other basketball shoes.

Today, Zoom Air has transcended basketball and is now used in several different types of footwear.

Jumping out of the time machine it should be a lot easier now to understand just how big of an impact 1995-1996 had on the sneaker game. 1996 may have had a great draft or an epic anniversary celebration however it was the 1996 All-Star Game that proved to be the stage that showcased these things and was pivotal in forming many of the sneaker trends we still see and enjoy today.

By Marc Griffin / Art by Hieram Weintraub @hieram Nearly a century ago, a crowd of thousands gathered upon a frigid waterfront.

A young man with a large flock of hair appeared before them, dressed in a pair of handcuffs, his body heavily wrapped in chains. He was placed into a crate, nailed inside, as men stood in confusion and women fainted. A crane lowered the contraption deep into the swirling waters toward an impending doom.

In modern days, our own magician had become mortal.

Earvin Johnson, age 32, announced he had HIV. The world stopped. Promiscuity had caught up to the Lakers legend and an unspoken, fearful disease made a surprise visit on our doorsteps.

NBA Commissioner David Stern found himself in quite a conundrum as the All-Star ballots started steaming in. He had lost of his marquee players in an unheard fashion, and the masses were desperate for his return.

At that time, HIV and AIDS were largely mislabeled as a ‘gay disease’ and paranoia was spreading faster than the virus itself. There were uninformed concerns around the league, that the virus was transmissible

through sweat, Charles Barkley suggested Johnson should sit this one out. Despite dissent from a few around the NBA, in the eye of the storm Stern stood his ground and allowed democracy to speak for itself.

Poof. The magic man appeared.

The fans had sequestered Johnson to the grandest stage: the 1992 All-Star Game. From the introductions onward, Magic’s smile illuminated the entire arena, yet the rust on his game was apparent. The pinpoint passes were off; the drives were awkward.

The elephant in the room was HIV. Players were hesitant around the magician; there was an unspoken uneasiness. Until one man brazenly changed everything we knew and felt about AIDS. Dennis Rodman, the mercurial Piston, checked into the game and did what he did best. Johnson got the ball on the wing and The Worm got into his defensive stance like a hyena attacking a gazelle. He guarded Magic like it was Game 7 of the NBA Finals. That relentlessness

by Rodman set the tone for all of us; it was time to stop dreading this disease.

33

SOLE SHIFT

In the second half he was flat. Johnson held scoreless most of the way, as the crowd fell quiet as the clock slowly ticked away.

But of course, a magician always saves his best for last.

Johnson hit a 3-pointer. Then another. Next he found Chris Mullin with a cross-court dime. The chants of “ ” drifted down from the upper bowels of the arena. Johnson then whizzed a pass thirty feet through traffic to Dan Marjerle for a reverse layup.

Magic. Magic. Magic.

Isiah Thomas wanted to be part of the act; the Piston guard devilishly dribbled at the top of the key challenging his longtime friend to guard him. Thomas bounced the ball behind his back patiently as Johnson got down in a deep defensive stance. A schoolyard battle under the big lights; the arena began to roar.

Thomas pulled up for a jumper. No good.

Magic raised his arms in victory.

Throughout all this, the emperor was not entertained; Michael Jordan demanded the magician make an appearance before his throne. The stadium now on its feet; Jordan put his moves on Johnson, ending with a patented fade away jumper. Clank. The clock continued to wind down.

On the final possession of the night, MJ attempts to keep Magic from getting the ball, but the basketball gods would have nothing of that. The magic man razzled and Sole Shift Final Logo Design dazzled on the right wing and Variations drained a All Colour final empathic dagger. Both teams rushed to embrace him, fans in frenzy, as the seconds faded away.

And a century ago, on that waterfront, the young man emerges from the deep.

He had freed himself from his chains and escaped impending death. The masses stood in awe and wonder. The great Houdini was back again.

The day the magic came back

“The elephant in the room was HIV. Players were hesitant around the magician; there was an unspoken unease.

Until one man brazenly changed everything we knew and felt about AIDS.”

By Jason Tiangco / Photos by charlie lindsay

35

SOLE SHIFT

performance review: the nike kyrie 2

The second model in the Kyrie Irving signature line was designed by Leo Chang, with a first-ever curved outsole and midsole to enhance transition, cutting and banking.

From a design standpoint, this allows for traction to be engaged regardless of angle or direction of movement.

Utilizing oversized, deeper inlets within the full-contact rubber outsole, the KYRIE 2 performed as advertised.

Our athletes confidently moved around the court wherever and whenever they wanted, regardless of foot placement, which could be argued as a first in our experience. The KYRIE 2 has most definitely provided some of the best traction we’ve ever tested and score almost perfectly by our standards whether on clean or dusty indoor or outdoor courts.

TRACTION: 9.5

The KYRIE 2 incorporates a Zoom Air Unit in the heel for impact protection within a midsole setup that is super firm and responsive. The result, a cushioning platform that provides amazing court feel, responsiveness and fluid transitions in any direction.

Yet it falters mightily if you’re looking for a more plush and cushioned ride. Keep this in mind if you have weak knees or are a high-flyer.

CUSHIONING: 6.5

The upper is comprised of a combination of Nike’s Hyperfuse materials and textile mesh. Immediately upon step-in the upper is stiff, providing a supportive sensation, feeling durable and a sense of containment but takes a hit in the comfort category just as quickly. After a handful of wearings the upper softened up providing a more comfortable “not thinking about it while playing” feel for the athlete, and maintained a secure fit.

Midfoot lockdown and support were much improved over the KYRIE 1 and scored high with our testers. The Hyperfuse upper and mid foot strap keep the athlete’s foot well locked-in upon the footbed.

Watch the Sole Shift Performance Review

Stability also tested high as the sculpted TPU heel counter minimized any lateral ankle movement, plus the wide-based rounded outsole (which also relinquished the need of incorporating any outriggers), provided a stable platform that minimized lateral instability.

Shoe fits true to size, with a standard D width.

FIT & LOCKDOWN: 8.5 Final Thoughts If you’re a quick guard whose only care is to go FAST in every which direction, this is the shoe for you. TRACTION, COURT FEEL, AND LOCKDOWN are second to none in this model. The break-in period will have to be dealt with but once that threshold is reached, it’s off to the races. The firm ride utilized within the midsole carrier will lack in plush cushioning and impact protection but you’ll most certainly make it up by blowing by your opponents on either end of the floor.

Overall Score: 24.5 of 30

Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

37

SOLE SHIFT

5 second call: justise winslow

Second Call By the sole shift staff / photo by Nathaniel S. Butler

Justise Winslow

Last year, Justise Winslow was a national champion with the Duke Blue Devils in only his freshman year. Now his journey starts anew as he suits up as a rookie for the Miami Heat this season. The 10th overall pick hasn’t looked out of place and is displaying enough promise and athleticism to secure a spot in the Rising Stars Challenge, at NBA All-Star weekend. The count on #20 starts now.

Where’s your favourite court to play ball?

Probably Cameron Indoor Stadium, (Duke University), it’s cool, especially on a game day. But even going back playing pick up, it’s cool to play at. My driveway growing up, that’s probably in there too.

What's your career highlight so far?

Probably my freshman year at St. John’s in high school, I had 43 in the state championship and my brother hit a buzzer beater to win the game.

Sole Shift

Final Logo Designwhat If you could have your own signature shoe All Colour Variations would the slogan be?

Just Win (Ed. Ahh I see what you did there) What's your favourite part of the game?

Competition. Just going out there and just competing, whether it’s offence, defence, rebounding. Just knowing that you and the person on the other side, y’all just going at it, trying to make each other better, not even that, but just trying to kill each other. That’s probably my favourie aspect of life really is just competition.

a photo essay Basketball has tightly gripped mainstream Toronto over the last few years, with the success of the Raptors and the rise of local talent throughout the NBA, NCAA and high school ranks. Yet hoops have held a foothold on the city, as the playgrounds, parks and schoolyards have been a battleground for some, and an escape for many. Six of the best shooters in Toronto share their vision, where ball and the love of the game reign supreme.

39

SOLE SHIFT

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

PHOTO BY Charles Stanislaw Graham - @Offglass

PHOTO BY Charlie Lindsay - @DonCharleone

41

SOLE SHIFT

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

43

SOLE SHIFT

PHOTO BY Yasin Osman - @Yescene

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

PHOTO BY Jober Guevarra - @mr.jobeezy

45

SOLE SHIFT

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

PHOTO BY Sharmarke Abdi - @Re.Mark

47

SOLE SHIFT

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

PHOTO BY Jamaal Thomas - @Signed.sealed

49

SOLE SHIFT

6 of 6ix: a photo essay

Queen City

Hogtown T.O. T-Dot The Big Smoke The ix

6

By Jason Tiangco / Photos by charlie lindsay

51

SOLE SHIFT

performance review: the Adidas D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit

Damian Lillard’s second signature model is reincarnated as part of the “Aurora Borealis” collection with a new spin from its original makeup, with the inclusion of Boost cushioning for the first time. The D Lillard 2 released in December of last year, has a full-length upper incorporating adidas’ new cushioning technology Bounce, as the platform of choice for Portland’s main Trailblazer. The D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit amplifies the original, with the inclusion of their top-tier Boost cushioning and Primeknit materials for the upper.

The use of Continental tire rubber in the outsole’s storytelling traction pattern resulted in a durability that scored high on the traction scale when on a clean court. Our weartesters did notice that on a dusty court, constant wiping was needed in order to keep traction at a decent clip.

TRACTION: 8 clean indoor court, 7 dusty or outdoor court

The Lillard signature line was one that many felt should’ve included Boost technology. Well here it is.

Replacing Bounce from the model’s initial release, Boost cushioning can now be found in the heel, coupled with an EVA Stableframe in the forefoot to complete the package. The result: super plush yet responsive impact protection upon first heel contact, and a firm feel under the forefoot as you jump off.

When comparing the uniform cushioning platform of Bounce from the original model, to the dual setup in the D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit, it’s noticeable that transition takes a hit and isn’t as fluid. As there is slight segmentation during heel to toe transition.

CUSHIONING: 8.5

A full Primeknit upper provides a breathable and snug, yet comfortable fit. Our weartesters found the shoe to be very comfortable straight out of the box. Contrary to initial thoughts, the lockdown in the D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit is solid with such a comfortable upper. The lacing structure, TPU midfoot shank, and external heel counter all contribute to the stability and support, keeping you locked in within the shoe.

Our weartesters felt that the model runs half a size big, so consider that when buying your pair.

FIT & LOCKDOWN: 8.5

Final Thoughts If you want aSole shoe Shiftthat gets the job done in all aspects Final Logo Design providing solid traction, a super comfortable fit, and provides All Colour Variations the support and locked-in-feel to play like Dame does on the court - the D Lillard 2 Boost Primeknit is definitely one you should include in your rotation.

Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

Overall Score: 25 of 30

53

SOLE SHIFT

XXX: Celebrating 30 by going 1 on 1

XXX:

By Sean Francois 5

With the Jordan XXX releasing over NBA All-Star Weekend, we thought it would be fun to take a stroll down memory lane, but not in the way you may expect.

Instead of looking at past Air Jordan sneakers, many of which are iconic within basketball, pop culture, and lifestyle trends, we selected 30 of Jordan Brand’s past and present official endorsers.

Players who represented the Jumpman on the basketball court as professionals, and imagined if they participated in a single elimination 1-on-1 tournament.

Ranking them one through thirty, they were placed in a ‘Battle Royale’ style bracket. Envisioning this tournament as an actual event, rankings were based on the players’ abilities in their prime, career accolades, and their impact on the brand.

Without a doubt, there will be many differing opinions and thoughts on how such a tournament would play out. Disagreements on who should be ranked higher, or who would win, but those are the kinds of discussions and conversations we welcome at Sole Shift. So for now, turn the page and see how the disciples of MJ fared in our winner-take-all XXX battle.

Round 1 Ray Allen and Dwyane Wade earned the Number One and Number Two seeds, respectively, netting them both a first round bye. Each an accomplished Jordan Brand athlete, who has attained impressive individual accolades while realizing success through helping their teams win multiple NBA titles. The remaining 28 players matched up in 14 separate games to see who would advance to the second round. When the dust settled, Stephen Jackson and Michael Finley managed the only two ranked upsets in the opening frame.

1 Ray allen

15 Vin baker 19 caron butler 7 kawhi leonard 23 kevin martin 6 blake griffin 27 jabari parker 10 jimmy butler 26 victor oladipo 14 juwan howard 22 steven jackson 12 joe johnson 18 andre Drummond 3 carmelo Anthony 30 derek anderson

Round 2 The second round resulted in some very stout match ups, and if these on-court 1-on-1 battles were to ever play out in person, they would be must see TV! The most notable match up would be Kawhi Leonard (7) versus Blake Griffin (6). In what would likely be a tie-breaking game point situation, Leonard manages to come out on top over BG32.

Another second round match up to highlight is Russell Westbrook versus Naismith Hall of Famer, Mitch Richmond. Westbrook edges out Richmond purely based on the hyper competitiveness and aggressiveness the OKC guard shows every time he’s on the court.

Finals and Winner

Then there were two, in Russell Westbrook an abilities is world-class. In many ways, they have positions that the NBA hasn’t seen many time the crown. Westbrook is an undeniable talent, as a scorer (which is scary!) and as a playmake he has the tools to be able to get that one fina a down-to-the wire contest.

55

SOLE SHIFT

XXX: Celebrating 30 by going 1 on 1

Round 3

Round 4

Only eight remain. Flat out shooters and high flying athletes: CP3 vs. Toni Kukoc, Russ vs. D-Wade, Melo vs. Jimmy Buckets, Kawhi vs. Jesus Shuttlesworth… just reading the matchups alone is tantalizing! In the end there can only be four winners. CP3 is so crafty that he finds his way to victory, in a major coup Westbrook upsets D-Wade in an undoubtedly incredible game.

Melo is so seasoned, so smooth, and his jump shot is almost unstoppable. Ray Allen: Well, simply put: HE GOT GAME!

The Final Four… CP3 vs. Westbrook, and Carmelo vs.

Ray Allen. Two of the game’s elite point guards go headto-head, while two of the game’s all-time best shooters (both long range and midrange) battle for a shot in the Final! Despite Chris Paul’s resourcefulness, heady play, and ability to score, in a game of 1-on-1 Westbrook’s speed and athleticism is a nightmare to battle against. Ray vs.

Carmelo is one for the ages! Anthony has the rebounding and low post edge, which is pivotal due to limited missed shots by Ray Allen, but that’s the difference as Melo moves on.

nd Carmelo Anthony. Each of these players’ an array in their arsenal at their respective es in its history. In the end, only one can wear and he’s only going to become more efficient er. But with Carmelo’s shooting ability and size, al bucket, in what would be the difference in

2 dwayne wade

16 kemba walker 20 michael finley 8 mitch richmond 24 quentin richardson 5 russell westbrook 28 josh howard 9 toni kukoc 25 eddie jones 13 lamarcus aldridge 21 gerald wallace 11 rip hamilton 17 mike bibby 4 chris paul 29 maya moore

Started

A Brief History of the Emergence of Basketball Culture in Toronto

By Ryan Gonzalez

As the city of Toronto prepares to host the 2016 NBA All-Star Game, ball-is-life enthusiasts throughout the 6ix are ecstatic that finally the basketball movement in the North is getting the recognition they feel they deserve. Whether through uneven media coverage, having NBA players refuse to play for the Raptors, or just outright disrespect from the American collective consciousness, Toronto hoops fans have always had a sort of chip on their shoulders. We know about the city’s rich basketball history but does everyone else? Is the casual ball fan even aware of Toronto’s contribution to the game? We have been there from the start, and the spotlight from the All-Star Game is our chance to prove it.

Let’s start at the beginning; the very beginning. In 1946 several NHL owners banded together to fill in unused arena dates, and so began the Basketball Association of America (which would eventually become the National Basketball Association) and the Toronto Huskies were born. Toronto hosted the first ever BAA/NBA game, facing the New York Knickerbockers on November 1, 1946.

Despite having incredible promotions like free entrance for anyone over 6’8” and free stockings for women in attendance, the dysfunctional Huskies only lasted a single season. Nevertheless, the seed was planted in the soul of the city.

As the game began growing and evolving, so too did the Toronto talent pool. In 1977, Leo Rautins was a standout at St. Michael’s College and was the youngest player to ever play on the Canadian Senior Men’s National Team at 16. The 6’8” Lithuanian had a storied career as a member of the Syracuse Orangemen, and became the first Canadian to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft, in 1983 by the Philadelphia 76ers. Unfortunately, injuries hampered his career, and

57

SOLE SHIFT

started: Toronto basketball he played sparingly around the NBA. After a few years playing in Europe and helping the Canadian National Program, Rautins settled into broadcasting. He was a rare case of a Canadian making it to the NBA, and slowly, professional basketball scouts began noticing players north of the border.

One such player is the legendary Phil Dixon. “Dr. Dix” is widely regarded as the greatest Canadian high school player ever, averaging 40 pts per game (with no 3-point line!) for powerhouse Bathurst Heights. He made the game look easy; high I.Q, unlimited range, crazy athleticism, and an underrated passer and lockdown defender. Dr. Dix would routinely participate in US tournaments, garnering tournament MVP trophies, winning dunk-offs and capturing 3-pt contest crowns, often all in the same tournament. The lore of Phil Dixon was growing, and landed him a spot on Rick Majerus’ Utah Utes. Unfortunately, a major leg injury hampered his athleticism, but didn’t stop his collegiate career. Undaunted, Dixon rehabbed and would go on to play professionally overseas, as well as stints on the National Team. And then came the Battlegrounds, Nike’s one-on-one street ball tournament. At age 34 and hobbled with a bad leg, Dr. Dix took on all challengers, many of them a full decade younger than him, and emerged King of Toronto. Dixon continues to affect the game to this day, as coach of a basketball development program in the Greater Toronto Area.

This is definitely the golden age for Canadian basketball, with all the respect and exposure that entails. And the rest of the world is taking notice.

While in high school at Eastern Commerce, Jamaal Magloire was the highest rated player at the centre position in North America (it was him, then Jermaine O’Neal). He went on to play for Rick Pitino as a Kentucky Wildcat, and won a National Championship in 1998. The “Big Cat” declared draft eligible in 2000, and was selected in the first round by the Hornets, where he was the first player from Toronto to be selected an All-Star in the 2003-04 season. After a few tours with several NBA teams, Magloire eventually signed with the Toronto Raptors, being the first

Canadian ever signed by the franchise. He continues to work with them as an assistant coach and team ambassador.

Players like Magloire, Dixon, and Rautins did much to promote the growth of basketball in Toronto, but it was the emergence of the Raptors in 1995 that really caught everyone’s attention. Although the Raptors as a team had struggled much at the beginning, there were many highlights that the city, even the country, could get behind; the victory over the Michael Jordan-led Chicago Bulls (that 72 win team), and Damon Stoudamire winning Rookie of the Year. No doubt, in a city that was dominated by hockey, the Raptors fought for relevance in the Toronto sports market. And then Vince Carter came along and turned everything on its ear. Carter’s unbridled athleticism and creativity caught the hearts and minds of a starving and desperate fan base, and became the darling of not only the NBA, but all of Canada (I will say with scientific certainty that Vince Carter was the darling of Vancouver, Shareef Abdur-Rahim or no Shareef Abdur-Rahim). Carter’s

Toronto hoops fans have always had a sort of chip on their shoulders. WE know about the city’s rich basketball history, but does everyone else? performance at the 2000 Slam Dunk Competition is the stuff of legend, and is definitely one of those, “where were you when” sports moments.

Even though Carter wore out his welcome in Toronto, he inspired a whole generation of ballers growing up idolizing him and the Raptors. The little 10 year old kid who practiced the between-the-legs dunk in their doorway rims were mentored by the Dixon’s of the city, and grew up to be Andrew Wiggins. The young man who worked on his post moves in his driveway grew up to be Tristan Thompson. Cory Joseph, Nik Stauskas, Anthony Bennett; the list goes on. This is definitely the golden age for Canadian basketball, with all the respect and exposure that entails. And the rest of the world is taking notice. Strong showings in the 2015 FIBA Americas tournament and last summer’s Pan Am Games have proven the depth of talent of the Canadian National team, which will only get stronger with experience, and the emergence of young talents

59

SOLE SHIFT

started: Toronto basketball

like Jamal Murray and R.J. Barrett. Even though their 2016 Olympic hopes are slim, the future potential of the team is extremely bright, thanks in no small part to the talent being developed right here in Toronto and the GTA. The on court product is solid, and only getting better.

But in this new information age of social media, it helps to have people in high places singing the city’s praises. And in terms of millennial credibility, there is no one currently in a higher place than hip-hop phenom Sole Shift Drake. Whether its through social Final media, annual Logo the Design All Colour Variations OVOBounce Basketball Tournament, or even onstage at one of his many concerts; his influence as Global Ambassador for the Raptors is staggering, and he uses every opportunity he has to promote Toronto as a hotbed of modern culture, especially on the basketball scene. Drake has only been praising what those of us who have been down from day one (that’s two Drake song references!) have known all along; Toronto basketball has, is, and most importantly, will remain, relevant. Do we have your attention yet?

Drake has only been praising what those of us who have been down KNEW from day one.

By Jason Tiangco / Photos by charlie lindsay

61

SOLE SHIFT

performance review: the nike kobe 11

Much like Kobe Bryant’s attention to detail on the court, it’s the finer details that make the KOBE 11 close to a perfect fit during the Black Mamba’s final season in the NBA. The expectation was high amongst the sneaker world to see just what Nike’s Innovation Director and designer extraordinaire Eric Avar had in store for what should be Kobe’s last on-court signature model.

Starting from the ground up, the low-profile translucent rubber outsole provides great court feel but its performance is inconsistent at best when it comes to traction. On a clean, indoor court you’re #24 in his prime, stopping on a dime, splitting the double team with ease. On a dusty or outdoor court in comparison, you’ve morphed into 2016 Bryant going 4-11 from the field. The traction isn’t poor in this latest model, it’s good and sticks when in optimal conditions.

TRACTION: 7.5

The drop-in midsoles that were utilized in the KOBE 8 and 9 return this time incorporating a large volume Zoom Air unit in the heel for responsive impact protection upon initial contact. Coupled with a forefoot articulated Lunarlon midsole, what you have is a cushioning system that is lightweight, provides exceptional court feel and allows the athlete’s foot to move naturally. The fact the KOBE 11’s use the dropin midsoles also allows the athletes to swap-in the cushioned midsoles from the aforementioned previous models, or customize their cushioning system prior to purchase at Nike.com

CUSHIONING: 8.5

With the KOBE 11 Nike is introducing an enhanced upper material that, according to them, is an advanced Flyknit material engineered for the game of basketball.

What they really mean by that is they used a full Flyknit upper interlaced with Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) fibers (or ‘yarn’) throughout to add both structure and stability to deal with the rigors of the game. Our weartesters found that even with the incorporated TPU fibers, comfort upon step-in felt great requiring no break-in period, yet still structurally sound enough in all the right places and feeling lockedin upon the footbed.

In terms of stability ratings in the KOBE 11, despite not having an incorporated mid-foot shank to deal with torsional forces, the combination of the TPU fibers within the upper, the internal heel counter and the general low stance setup, any thoughts of instability while playing on the court were held to a minimum.

As has been the trend in previous KOBE Flyknit versions a bit of extra room can be found in the toe box, yet the KOBE 11’s still run true to size.

FIT & LOCKDOWN: 8.5

Watch the Sole Shift Performance Review

Final Thoughts Kobe Bryant is no longer the perfect NBA player, and neither is this KOBE signature model. If you’re a player looking for a super comfortable basketball shoe, that’s lightweight, requires zero break-in period, is responsive, stable, and has great court feel, consider the KOBE 11’s as a swan-song pick up for the future Hall of Famer. Just make sure you’re playing on pristine courts (or keep wiping them), otherwise, you might be slip-sliding more than you’d like.

Overall Score: 24.5 of 30

Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

63

SOLE SHIFT

player's perspective: ahmed ali

'

PHOTOS BY CHARLIE LINDSAY

Ahmed Ali

On December 16th, 2015 Ahmed Ali joined Denham Brown as the only two Toronto players to top the century mark in a high school game. Ali scored 103 points for John Polanyi Collegiate Institute, in a 11176 win over C.W. Jeffreys, including 23 3-pointers.

Here he tells Sole Shift how it went down.

To be honest, it was more of a competition, like I was competing with someone. The day before, a guy scored 61 points and we had a practice and my friend told me “Jordan Henry went for 61.” But I’m like, you know what? We have a game tomorrow. The whole time I was thinking we have a game tomorrow.

Jabulah was telling me “Don’t stop.” Then he started talking to each and every one of my teammates telling them “Feed the hot hand.”

I went to the C.W. Jeffreys game and I was warming up. My brother Yusuf told Coach Jabulah “My brother is going to score 80,” I never heard that until halftime.

Guys were yelling in my warm ups “Go for 50!” To be honest I never believed in it, until I started playing.

My first shot was actually a good move, which is what got my game going, it was an in-and-out crossover into a pull up three. The whole gym went nuts from the jump, it was in my home gym and they’re big supporters. It went in and everyone was wilding out, everyone was on me. I scored the first nine points of the game.

At halftime, the score was 56-28 and I had 48. The guys in the stands were celebrating - even we were celebrating. Jabulah was telling me “Don’t stop.”

Then he started talking to each and every one of my teammates telling them “Feed the hot hand.”

From there we played more and when I scored my 100-point basket, everyone ran on the court again!

It was like an NCAA upset, everyone rushed the court and they picked me up and took me outside in the cold, and the game stopped again. Right when

I woke up and went to school the next day and people are looking at me like I’m an NBA player. coach was telling me “Don’t get caught up in the hype, don’t let this define you.”

He’s right.

Everyone was saying “Get 81, get 81 Kobe Bryant’s record.” Then my mind was on Kobe Bryant’s record instead of Jordan Henry. The most I had ever scored in a game was 51 points in grade 11, 80 to be honest was the goal - I reached 81 by mid-fourth quarter. I told Adeel, our prep coach at BTB (Bigger Than Basketball) who was in the stands, that I was going to stop at 85.

I didn’t see any point of playing past that point. He’s yelling at me, “No, no, no, get a 100! Get a hundred, Get a hundred!”

When I hit 93, the whole crowd, I mean EVERYONE stood up and ran on the floor. I was like “Wow!” They wanted to forfeit the game, but Jabulah, he held everyone back, he has a major impact in the community by the way.

I made the basket Jabulah called a timeout. We were celebrating outside in the cold, I was like “Yo get me back in the gym! Get me back in the gym.” When I got back in, all you see is the refs discussing it with Sole Shift FinalI Logo the coaches, and they let us play. Then hit aDesign 3-pointer, All Colour Variations and Jabulah takes me out for the rest of the game, with 1:05 left.

It didn’t hit me what had happened until nighttime, around 3:00 AM. I could not go to sleep, and I’m wondering why am I not going to sleep? My messages were blowing up like I couldn’t believe. I couldn’t go on social media. I woke up and went to school the next day and people are looking at me like I’m an NBA player. Jabulah was telling me “Don’t get caught up in the hype, don’t let this define you.” He’s right.

65

SOLE SHIFT

Dear kobe: a legacy in letters

A Legacy In Letters

By Rey Roncesvalles / illustration by Vinicius De Moura @vinispz There is no doubt that Kobe and his shoes are intertwined and have developed one of the greatest NBA careers in history. As Kobe’s game evolved over the years, his sneakers evolved in an equally revolutionary way to support his remarkable career. It is unmistakable Kobe’s shoes are not just an extension of his foot but of his identity.

With Kobe poised to hang up the kicks for good, here are some recollections from the shoes themselves that defined the great legacy of Kobe Bryant:

Dear Kobe, I have the greatest honor of being your first… the first one to support your virgin feet on the NBA hardwood. I was tasked with taking this cocky, brash, ambitious 18 year old kid straight out of high school – the Philly suburbs to Hollywood – and providing you with the proper support to begin a remarkable NBA journey for the next 20 years. I believe my “Feet You Wear” technology and herringbone traction helped propel you to win the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest, where you dazzled the crowd and crushed a between-the -legs dunk with swagger. Although we barely saw the court with 15 minutes a game in your rookie year, I can safely say that I helped kick start the career of one of the greatest players ever.

adidas EQT Elevation

Hey Kobe, I am truly blessed to be your first signature shoe. adidas made a bold move by taking a chance on you as an experienced 19 year old sophomore, but boy did it pay off. My design complimented

your exciting and reckless style of play, and the Feet You Wear technology coupled with a Torsion plate makes me the most beloved Kobe sneaker from adidas.

We were on your feet during your first All-Star Game as the youngest starter in NBA history (at the time), and you showed the world that you were primed for greatness when you held your own against His Airness.

adidas KB8

67

SOLE SHIFT

Dear kobe: a legacy in letters

KOBE!

first and I helped you get your It’s all about the rings, 0. hip rings beginning in 200 three straight champions very di to design me, taking a adidas teamed up with Au ke the Audi TT Roadster to ma literal inspiration from the e sneakers ever. We are me one of the most uniqu feel d no matter how people original space boots, an l part, n design was an integra about me, my sleek, clea aq and that alley-oop to Sh along with your mini afro first of three titles Diesel, in capturing your dismay of my successor (the third one much to the rtunate to be there when Kobe TWO). I was also fo y. r MVP 2002 in your birth cit you were named All-Sta od times indeed.

Good times, my friend. Go adidas The Kobe

Dearest Kobe, My sincere apologies for looking like this and letting you down, Kobe. It really is not my fault that adidas and Audi made me look more like a car than a shoe. The only thing I’m missing is a set of doors. “Space clogs” and “Ugly” are what the others called me. My heavy and bulky design literally drove you away from Adidas for Nike. I can’t blame you for ditching me during the 2002 NBA Playoffs for the original Kobe on your way to title number three. My only contribution to your legacy was creating a sick commercial of your slam dunks.

adidas The Kobe TWO

What’s up Kobe, Although I am not technically a member of your signature line, I can lay claim to the title as your first shoes with Nike. Easily the most trying season of your career with off court legal issues, Nike stuck by your side and paired me with you. Based on the legendary Huarache concept, my incredibly light and simple design makes me a well-balanced, high-performance shoe. We came up short in your attempt to four-peat, but we did baptize Dwight Howard into the League with a ferocious posterizing dunk. I feel great pride when you were quoted as saying I was the first sneaker that you wore that truly felt like an extension of your feet on the court.

Nike Zoom Huarache 2K4

Yo Kobe, There was no better time to be on your feet than in 2006. Statistically, players are in their prime at age 27, and you were definitely no exception. As your first signature sneaker under Nike, I was designed to give you support, stability and durability to support your bulked up frame. With me being the wind beneath your wings, you averaged a career-high 35.4 points per game during this season, highlighted by the infamous 81-point game against the Raptors, and claimed your first scoring title. Not to mention the amazing things you did against the Suns in the playoffs despite losing the series. Oh what a time to be alive!

Nike Zoom KOBE I

69

SOLE SHIFT

Dear kobe: a legacy in letters

Shaq who? It sure felt awesome to silence the haters and to help you seize your fourth championship in 2009 sans Shaquille O’Neal, along with an NBA Finals MVP. Did I mention the 61 points you dropped in Madison Square Gardens? Eric Avar did an amazing job by pushing the envelope in trying to make me the lightest, lowest basketball shoe without sacrificing support. A true masterpiece, my soccer boot-inspired design established a low cut formula for future Zoom KOBE sneakers and the industry in general dominated with high tops.

Following in your footsteps, pun intended, I changed the game.

Nike Zoom KOBE IV Hi Kobe, Revenge is a dish best served cold. Your killer instinct was no more apparent than in the gruelling victory over the Celtics in 2010 for your second straight championship and Finals MVP. Once again, Eric Avar was up to his innovative ways and accepted your challenge to create an even lighter shoe than its predecessor, and thus I was born.

Lighter, lower and once again featuring Flywire technology, and released in an unprecedented 33 colorways, I feel privileged to be able to have covered all aspects of your life. But I am truly grateful that you excluded me from your silly LA Times White Hot photoshoot.

Nike Zoom KOBE V

Dear Kobe Let’s push the boundaries a little more, shall we?

After four years of KOBE low tops, I was created with an extreme high-top design inspired by a boxing boot. Shout out to Manny Pacquiao.

I became the first basketball sneaker to embrace Nike’s Flyknit technology, giving me a superior lightweight strength. I held you in check as you officially came back from your Achilles injury.

More significantly, I was your support system when you passed your idol MJ as the third leading scorer in NBA history.

Amazing.

Nike KOBE IX

My Dear Kobe, I have the greatest honour of being your last… the last one to support your seasoned feet on the NBA hardwood. I am tasked with taking this proud, accomplished 37 year old veteran around every NBA arena in celebration, ending with his final points as a pro. My lightweight, high performance, and simple yet sophisticated design is a true testament to your drive, intensity, and relentless work ethic. I am innovation mastery at its finest, and proud to represent the Black Mamba as your crowning achievement.

Salute Sole Shift Final Logo Design All Colour Variations

Nike KOBE XI Elite

71

SOLE SHIFT

Unboxed: xavier rathan-mayes

Xavier Rathan-Mayes By ray bala / photoS by Mitch White

Xavier Rathan-Mayes has been recognized as one of the top young basketball talents out of Canada since he was 15 years old. The Scarborough, Ontario native is part of what many are calling the Golden Age of young hoops talent making waves on the U.S. high school and AAU circuits, and now lighting up the NCAA and NBA. Unboxed offers a closer look at the players, people and luminaries in basketball and their insight on footwear and performance and that’s exactly what we did with the Florida State University guard.

What were the first shoes you fell in love with and why?

The ones I love the most are Kobe’s. I’m a huge Kobe fan. They’re super light and I just feel the most comfortable in them. I don’t have a specific one, I just love the whole KOBE line. It’s about the only thing I play in.

What’s your all-time favourite basketball shoe to play in?

My favorites would have to be the KOBE V. I love playing in those. I have a few in my locker that I have waiting for the right moment (to break out).

In what shoe did you notice your footwear/ technology provided an advantage?

With the last couple of Kobe’s, the biggest difference I’ve noticed with the KOBE 11 is that if feels like a sock.

You feel the traction, you’re able to make cuts quickly and it’s really responsive to quick moves like crossovers.

True or false, it’s got to be the shoes?

True.

When you don’t want to train or practice, what motivates you?

The biggest thing that motives me is, wanting to be great. That’s probably the (biggest) thing in mind those days I’m really sore and I really don’t want to work out in the gym, I always ask myself “Do you want to be great and how great do you want to be?”

I think that pushes me and motivates me to work as hard as I do.

What’s one part of your training regimen that you couldn’t do without?

What I couldn’t do without is on court stuff – ball handling and shooting. And my massages the day after (he’s says with a chuckle) Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions that you must go through?

Listening to my music, and I like to FaceTime my brother and talk to him before a game. This year I’ve been doing what I was doing in high school (which was) playing with a dollar bill folded in my sock. Right now I’ve been playing with a Canadian fifty-dollar bill in my sock that myself and a few of my teammates have signed. I have it tucked away pretty good so I won’t lose it.

If you could insert yourself into a sports moment (not basketball) what would it be?

Sole Shift

Final Logo Design Probably watching Tiger Woods win the Masters.

All Colour Variations Growing up, golf and basketball were always 1a and 1b. I pursued basketball but every chance I can (I’ll watch) Tiger. I love how competitive he is, his mindset, how he approaches things, his work ethic, I love it and I kind of looked up to him. Outside of basketball golf is my favorite sport to watch. I don’t get to play too often (during the basketball season) but in the summer I’ll go two or three times a week. I love playing golf and I’m not too bad at it.

By Next Year

73

SOLE SHIFT

Footwork: by next year

by will strickland / Illustration by Craig White It's said that change is the only constant.

The confluence of drugs and politics with music and sports in February 1983 ended up being the variables by which I would begin to shape the design of my life.

Magic, Bird, Kareem, Isiah... NBA All-Star Weekend In Los Angeles... Hollyweird.

Lakers owner, the late Dr. Jerry Buss, was a pioneer of sorts, all about blending the game with entertainment as an avenue of expanding his fan base and scope of the game.

The Lakers Girls, Jack Nicholson, Dyan Cannon, Dustin Hoffman, Denzel Washington... to be in Inglewood, in The Forum, home of the defending NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers, was to be IN!

"He was made for dreams. He was The Doc: My Favorite Player Of All Time.

And The Doc rocked my Holy Grail of Fine Athletic Footwear: The Converse Pro Leather."

For what it's worth, it was an entertaining and naturally star-studded affair. Watching the level and speed of it all, along with the joy of making millions for playing a childhood game, enraptured me. Julius Winfield Erving II won his second and last NBA All-Star Game MVP as his Hall of Fame career was winding down. He was made for TV. He was made for dreams. He was The Doc: My Favorite Player Of All Time. And The Doc rocked my Holy Grail of Fine Athletic Footwear: The Converse Pro Leather. I wanted- no I needed them, though I suspect even if the classiest, coolest, most elegant cat to ever lace them up in The Association wore Chucks or PF Flyers, I would have desired those, too.

The game, the song and the decision would mark a dramatic shift perception of culture, entertainment and the inevitability of change.

What made the festivities of the day all the more extraordinary was the singing of the National Anthem by Marvin Gaye.

Before Gaye, the song had rarely, if ever, been taken by singers to craft their own unique renditions of the national standard. To many, Gaye's performance was heresy, tantamount to treason in the eyes of so-called patriots. NBA Commissioner Larry O'Brien was fully aware and concerned by a continued perception of his league. O'Brien's primarily white financial base considered the NBA a drug-addled band of primarily black millionaires in short pants snorting half of Peru and was furious at the aberration in protocol by Gaye.

But the players, fans and O'Brien's right hand, then Executive Vice President of the NBA, David Stern, loved Gaye's offering. Stern, who in his role as EVP, helped to establish a huge concession with the players' association: drug testing, always talked of ways to improve the league. The game, the song and the decision would mark a dramatic shift in perception of culture, entertainment and the inevitability of change.

I was still sneaking to watch NBA Finals games on tape delay at 11:35, just after your late local newscast, under my sheets with the volume on sub-zero with my 13" black and white set. I loved basketball so much I was willing to catch a slap from my parents for violating their rules. So be it! I was a fiend before I became a teen! I dreamed of melting would be defenders like cones of ice cream, word to William Michael Griffin, Jr. I just wanted to be a star... in everything!

I wanted to be Magic, Isiah, Kareem, Bird... Ok. Maybe I reached with Bird, but I respected his gangsta on the court. I couldn't stand whenever he won anything, though! From the time I was in kindergarten up until about the 11th grade, I was the lead in every play in school. The first play? Wizard of Oz. I remember talking to Moms x asking her if I could be Oz, not even knowing if that was the lead role or not. Fiending for professional basketball had an entirely different tone.

To say Commissioner O'Brien's league had a drug problem would be slightly akin to saying I had a sneaker problem. Moms' favorite singer, Marvin Gaye, also had a severe drug problem. It was said he'd kicked the habit, but...

By next year, Larry O'Brien had ceded control of the Association to his right hand man, David Stern, who in his 30 years as NBA Commish totally changed the landscape and dynamics of the professional sports business.

75

SOLE SHIFT

footwork by will strickland

Never hurts that in the same year of 1984, the NBA Draft class was top heavy with Hall of Fame stars, including the most transcendent star of them all, Michael Jeffrey Jordan. The intersection of culture, style, defiance and substance forged Jordan's iconography, supported by his stellar play and his signature sneaker, the Air Jordan. Stern's enhancement of All-Star Weekend, including the revival of the dunk contest, introducing community and global initiatives and the breadth of the entertainment value, would forever change how I viewed sports.

Marvin Gaye forever changed the way we would hear the Anthem, for better or for worse. After his Sexual Healing Tour launched in April 1983 on the back of overwhelming wave of visibility from his version the Star Spangled Banner, he would never sing another song.

By next year, Gaye would be dead, high out of his mind after freebasing on coke and shot in a dispute with his father.

And, by next year, I was officially a teenager.

Sole Shift A little less Design innocent... and a lot more aware of Final theLogo world.

All Colour Variations High school. Girls. Sports‌ and a Choice: stay on my functions in class and excel in athletics or... Well, there was no "or" for me.

No matter how much I wanted "things" like the dope boys around me had, I wanted something more... something more endearing to me...

I wanted my Life...

And, I got my Dr. J's!

David Stern, who in his 30 years as NBA Commish totally changed the landscape and dynamics of the professional sports business.

The Olympics Issue drops July 2016.

Want to contribute an article, art or photograph? Hit us up on social media.

@SOLESHIFT