words, photos & interview by Kevin Kazadi
This past weekend, Nice Kicks had the pleasure of joining Nike for the annual The Opening showcase which features many of the nation’s best recruits. Five star prospects, uncommitted athletes and players on the rise all flocked to Dallas, TX for the championship series of the running event. While there, we were able to catch up with the likes of Rob Gronkowski, Denzel Ward, Roquan Smith and more.
Focused on football, the event also celebrated the 30th anniversary of Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign, which is arguably the greatest tagline in advertising history. Willie McGinest interviewed the two rookies on site and had them share insight on what the slogan means to them.
“When you think about ‘Just Do It,’ it’s a simple statement: just do your job,” answered Malik. “So when I think ‘Just Do It,’ I definitely think to just keep in mind the task at hand and make sure I follow and execute my plan.”
Between the amateur football action, we had a chance to catch up with Todd Gurley an alumni of the showcase and Gronk and talk about Drake and a few of their favorite sneakers.
Nice Kicks: What’s your favorite song at the moment?
Gronk: I just put on the station that plays the top hits, but “God’s Plan” is pretty good. That one’s easy, everytime it pops on I’m like, “Okay!” [Laughs]
Nice Kicks: Todd, I see you’ve got the Skepta Air Max collaboration on, what are your current go to sneakers?
Todd: The Nike Air Max 270s, the Nike Epic React and as far as designer sneakers go the Balenciaga Triple S and Speed Trainer.
Shortly after chatting with Gronk and Todd, Roquan Smith met up with a few of the media spokesmen to teach a few techniques from the NFL Combine.
In closing, The Opening was a great experience. Hanging out with NFL atheletes, customizing our own cleats and watching the best recruits in the country compete is tough to beat. We’d like to thank Nike and Cowboys administration for the hospitality.
