Puma is collaborating with NBA star LaMelo Ball and the NFT project Gutter Cat Gang for limited-edition kicks dubbed "GutterMelo MB.03."

The sneakers could be acquired by buying the NFT collectible for $175 via the OpenSea marketplace on June 29. It would then be redeemed for the physical sneakers from July 18 through August 20. The number of NFTs to be released has yet to be announced, according to a Puma representative

The GutterMelo MB.03 sneaker has a light blue rubber outsole, Nitro foam midsoles, red collars, and matching laces atop a teal mesh foundation with abstract printed panels in red, blue, and green. The sneaker is represented digitally by NFT collectibles company Gutter Cat Gang and is viewable from every angle on Web3 marketplace OpenSea.

Ball, a point guard for the Charlotte Hornets, inked a multi-year endorsement deal with Puma in 2020 for a reported $100 million.

The MB.03 sneaker marks the third iteration of Ball's sneaker line with Puma. Further editions are expected for release this year. Additionally, LaMelo Ball recently revealed the arrival of his brand-new PUMA MB.02 "Be You" colorway. This may be the Charlotte Hornets point guard's most daring episode to date, excluding his imaginative collaborations with Rick and Morty.

Each side of the sneakers features an array of brilliant colors and patterns on both the upper and lower portions, making the footwear look mismatched. A heel clip with an iridescent finish completes the base, which is decorated with a multicolor galaxy motif. The right shoe features volt tongues and side design lines resembling blue and red flames, while the left features pink tongues and purple and pink flames. While the left shoe has a bright orange inner, the right side's liners are drenched in purple. The midsoles also have a gradient appearance, enhanced by cheetah prints along the forefoot.

In the 2023 NBA season, 67% of players wore Nike sneakers, making it the most popular brand in the market for basketball footwear. This number increases to nearly 75% when Nike's Jordan Brand is considered.

With roughly 3% of NBA player share, Puma placed fourth in the same data behind Adidas and the Jordan brand. However, with the endorsements of both Ball and Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns, the brand may be increasing cultural relevance in the sport.

Photo: Puma Newsroom